Role of Social Enterprises to Overcome Food Insecurity: Evidence from Ethiopia

Purpose: Food security is a dynamic concept, which has continuously integrated new dimensions and levels of analysis over the years; this reflects the wider recognition of its complexities in research and public policy issues. Food insecurity is a major challenge for Ethiopia and for many African countries. This paper aims to identify the roles of social enterprises to overcome food insecurity. Research design, data and methodology: The research has focused on one primary question. What are the role of social enterprises to overcome food insecurity? The survey questionnaire was developed and an interview was made using enumerators. A total sample size of 400 sample households was selected randomly using the method of sampling with probability proportionate to size. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis methods were used for data analysis. Results: Results of the regression analysis show that all of the hypothesized independent variables are significantly and positively affecting post membership income of the sample households. Conclusions: all stakeholders as government, development actors and academic institutions should closely monitor and support social enterprises/cooperatives technically, financially and materially. By doing so, the full potential and contributions of social enterprises in reducing unemployment and solving the social and environmental problems can be effective.