Associations between a cash voucher intervention, food consumption, and coping strategies in Somali food-insecure populations

This cross-sectional study analyzed endline data from 1,371 households in northern and southern Somalia participating in World Vision’s 2018–2019 Emergency Food Security Program. Households received unconditional and conditional cash vouchers, along with nutrition and livelihood trainings. Results show that voucher use was linked to better food security (higher Food Consumption Scores) and reduced coping strategies, though also associated with increased household conflict. Community rehabilitation, particularly increased check dams, was tied to improved resilience. Findings highlight the need to tailor voucher values to context, invest in water management, and expand training to men and boys to enhance women’s empowerment and food security outcomes.