The Roles of Women in Food Security in South Merapi Slope Villages

Economic conditions and poverty in rural areas have become problems in meeting the needs of food as the most basic needs/need. This problem can lead to food insecurity. This research aims to: (1) examine the characteristics of women; (2) study the obstacles faced by women in achieving food security; and (3) investigate women's efforts to achieve food security. The data were analyzed using quantitative descriptive technique by means of frequency tables. The livelihood diversification in Jetis Suruh was more visible than that in Bulus Lor. The fulfillment of individual food needs was related to economic, social, and cultural conditions. The year-round food needs of both villages indicated the need for food throughout the year. The need for food throughout the year in Bulus Lor was relatively better than that in Jetis Suruh. In general, food security in Bulus Lor was better than that in Jetis Suruh. Food security included the quantity and quality of food that met the standard of living of all family members. The availability of food in every household experienced dynamics at a certain time. When confronted with the limited food availability challenge, food for fathers was prioritized and this was dominant in both villages. Strategies to expand the diversification of businesses undertaken to increase household incomes included mobilizing all household members to go to work, borrowing money to make ends meet, saving money, reducing food, reducing the quality of food consumption, migrating jobs, and asking for help from family through friendship.