Understanding climate change impacts on rural livelihood strategies and household food security in Vavuniya District

Abstract

Climate variability poses significant challenges to rural livelihoods and food security, especially in agriculturally dependent regions such as Vavuniya District in northern Sri Lanka. This study investigates the impacts of changing climatic conditions on livelihood strategies, coping mechanisms, and food security outcomes, with the aim of identifying adaptive strategies for building resilience. Agriculture remains the primary livelihood for most households, but climate-related shocks, such as drought and erratic rainfall, have prompted many to diversify their livelihoods. This research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining household surveys with key informant interviews and focus group discussions, to explore how these changes are influencing food security and what adaptive responses have emerged. Results reveal that a majority of households (58%) have altered their primary livelihood strategy in response to climate impacts. Many have diversified into activities such as casual labour, small businesses, seasonal migration, and increased livestock rearing. The study finds that livelihood diversification is associated with lower levels of food insecurity, while households reliant on rain-fed agriculture face higher vulnerability. Additionally, factors such as household income, access to agricultural extension services, and ownership of productive assets significantly influence food security outcomes. Despite the emergence of adaptive practices, such as water-saving irrigation and crop diversification, barriers such as high input costs, limited access to drought-resistant seeds, and inadequate institutional support limit their broader adoption. The study emphasises that livelihood diversification, coupled with targeted support for adaptation, improved market access, and capacity-building initiatives, is crucial for enhancing resilience in climate-affected communities. It also highlights the need for integrated, multi-sectoral development policies that address both immediate livelihood challenges and long-term food security goals. By providing evidence of how climate change is reshaping rural livelihoods and food security in Vavuniya, the findings offer valuable insights for policymakers seeking to implement sustainable and effective strategies to mitigate climate impacts in vulnerable regions.