Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of the Population in Mbandaka (DRC) in the Fight Against Household Food Insecurity: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Introduction
Food insecurity remains one of the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century, affecting both the availability, access, and quality of food. Nearly one in ten people worldwide fall ill each year from consuming contaminated food. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the population regarding the fight against household food insecurity in Mbandaka, Équateur Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was conducted among 115 households in the Bongondjo neighborhood, Wangata Health Zone, Mbandaka city. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through guided interviews with household heads. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were performed using SPSS version 26.
Results
The majority of respondents (43.4%) had no formal education, and 67% were unemployed. Most households (57.3%) had eight or more members, and 67% had a monthly income between 50,000 and 100,000 Congolese Francs (~$20–40 USD). Regarding knowledge, 62.6% of respondents did not know the consequences of food insecurity. Only 34.7% had a home garden for food self-sufficiency. The majority (53%) consumed two meals per day, and 26% consumed only one meal daily. The most consumed foods were cassava leaves with tapioca (39.1%) and vegetables with fufu (32.1%). A significant association was found between education level and knowledge of the causes of food insecurity (χ² = 27.981, df = 9, p < 0.001). Household size was significantly associated with meal frequency (χ² = 19.495, df = 6, p < 0.05).
Discussion
The high proportion of unemployment (67%) and low education levels (43.4% without formal schooling) are major determinants of food insecurity in Mbandaka. Large household sizes (57.3% with ≥8 members) increase pressure on limited resources, leading to reduced meal frequency and poor dietary diversity. The lack of home gardens (65.2% without) limits self-sufficiency and increases market dependency. These findings align with global literature from FAO, WHO, and the World Bank.
Conclusion
Food insecurity in Mbandaka is influenced by economic, demographic, and behavioral factors. Improving household knowledge, attitudes, and practices through nutrition education, income-generating activities, and promotion of home gardening is essential to reduce this vulnerability.
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How to cite
Taambo Ngwada, A. (2026). Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of the Population in Mbandaka (DRC) in the Fight Against Household Food Insecurity: A Cross-Sectional Study. SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0036-knowledge-attitudes-and-practices-of-the-population-in-mbandaka-drc-in