Reflections on Policies of Gender and Food Security in Mozambique's Rural Arid Areas: The Case of Machanga District in Sofala Province

Numerous people who live in arid rural areas are vulnerable to food insecurities due to droughts, which have increased because of climate change. The argument presented here is that the social impact of climate change is not homogeneous, as men and women are affected differently. Women are affected because they depend directly on agriculture; when crops do not grow women are vulnerable to extreme poverty. In addition, households headed by women face great problems because women are less educated, have more domestic responsibilities and are more involved in unpaid work, compared to men. The essay addresses the gaps in policies and why the Food Subsidy Programme and cash transfer projects have not been successful. This analysis was done by reviewing literature and reviewing policy documents. The conclusion is that the Food Subsidy Programme and cash transfers are good in emergencies but need to be complemented by a sustainable skills-building programme, involving both men and women. Finally, recommendations include that the government must focus on programmes that involve both women and men in technological support in agriculture in rural arid areas.