Purpose:
Research Methods International was contracted by CARE International to conduct a baseline study for the Tayambuka Project, “Prevailing over Food Insecurity Challenge in a Dignified Way,” focusing on Lean Season Assistance in Zaka District. The study aimed to establish baseline values for key food security, hunger, coping strategies, gender, and social inclusion indicators to guide targeting, implementation, and performance monitoring during the lean season.

The assessment examined household food consumption, hunger severity, coping strategies, gender dynamics in decision-making, and satisfaction with humanitarian assistance, with particular attention to women-headed households and people with disabilities across selected wards in Zaka District.

Methodology:
A robust mixed-methods approach was applied, combining quantitative household surveys (462 households), focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Standardized food security indicators—including Food Consumption Score (FCS), Household Hunger Scale (HHS), and Reduced Coping Strategy Index (rCSI)—were used in line with international best practice.

Status:
Completed. The baseline study was finalized in January 2025 and provided CARE Zimbabwe with evidence-based insights to inform adaptive programming and future impact measurement for the Tayambuka Lean Season Assistance intervention.