Socioeconomic and gender based violence determinants of food insecurity in the low income context of the Mont Ngafula II health zone in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

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Food insecurity remains a major concern in poor settings like Kinshasa with a prevalence rate of 76.6%. This study aimed to examine the socioeconomic and gender-based violence (GBV) determinant that contribute to food insecurity in the Mont Ngafula II Health Zone in Kinshasa, justifying a local analysis of levers for action This was an analytical cross-sectional study conducted from November 25 to December 12, 2024. The sample comprised 368 households with children under 5 years of age randomly selected. Food insecurity was measured using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale. Statistical analyses included weighted Chi-square tests, multivariate logistic regression to identify associated factors, and Average Marginal Effects to assess the contribution of GBV ( p -value 0.05). The prevalence of food insecurity was 83.2% (95% CI 78.1–86.6), with 46.6% of households in the severe category. Multivariate logistic regression identified three primary determinants of food insecurity: geographical location, where households in peri-urban (urban-rural) fringes faced nearly double the risk compared to urban areas (AOR 1.9; 95% CI 1.1–3.4); economic status, with the lowest wealth index quintile significantly increasing vulnerability (AOR 2.1; 95% CI 1.0–4.2); and gender-based violence (GBV). Notably, exposure to GBV was a potent predictor, doubling the likelihood of food insecurity (AOR 2.0; 95% CI 1.1–3.6). Interaction analysis further revealed that GBV acts as a socio-economic disruptor, nullifying the protective effects of higher income and urban residency. The high prevalence of food insecurity in this peri-urban zone underscores the need for integrated interventions. Strategies must move beyond traditional food aid to include women’s protection services, structural improvements in housing and infrastructure, and socioeconomic empowerment to restore household agency and nutritional security.

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