Regional impact of COVID-19 on the production and food security of common bean smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa: Implication for SDG's

The study assessed the immediate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on bean he study assessed the immediate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on bean production and food security across eleven sub-Saharan African countries. The data collection covered production challenges, input access, labour shortages, market disruptions, and changes in household food consumption occassioned by the COVID-19 pandemic. The scope of the study included Eastern, Southern, Central, and Western Africa, focusing on high bean-producing areas. Principal Investigators sought to answer questions about how COVID-19 containment measures affected bean farming, access to resources, and food security, along with the broader implications for Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 2​.

<br><br> Methodology:The data collection methodology involved a mixed approach, using web-based surveys, face-to-face interviews, and mobile phone discussions. The study targeted bean farmers across eleven sub-Saharan African countries during March-April 2020. Gender focal persons in the National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) led the data collection, focusing on bean production and food security. Participants were selected based on availability, phone access, and physical presence. Survey links were shared via email and WhatsApp, and respondents completed questionnaires or were interviewed directly by phone. The questionnaires included English, Sesotho, and French versions, tailored to national languages​