Cash handouts best way to tackle hunger, says study

Mary Wanjiru a residents of Njoro inside her shamba on 16-09-2015. Hunger has striken the area following failed rains in the season. PHOTO:BONIFACE THUKU

Cash handouts are the best way to support smallholder farmers struggling due to drought, but for farmers experiencing wetter weather, agricultural inputs such as fertilisers and pesticides help most, a new study has found.

As scientists predict changes in rainfall patterns as a result of climate change, the study’s findings could help countries and aid agencies tackle hunger more effectively.

The study, published on Friday, covers nearly 2,000 smallholder farms in 12 countries.