ANALYSIS OF INCOME STRATEGIES ON FOOD SECURITY IN RURAL MAYAN COMMUNITIES IN NORTHERN CAMPECHE

Abstract

This paper examines the effect of income strategies on sufficiency of caloric intake in Mayan domestic groups (DG) of Campeche, Mexico. The analysis was based on the sustainable livelihoods approach; information was obtained through a census survey of households (N=237) in four communities. The results reveal that all of the DG have diversified income strategies with clearly defined orientation. The caloric sufficiency index is different among conglomerates of DG and increases in the measure that the proportion of agricultural income in total income increases. The wage work strategy (37.6%) and the agriculture- wage labor strategy (42.6%) do not cover energy requirements of the DG. The agricultural strategy is the only one that satisfies calorie intake needs of the DG (19.8%). These results are associated with the quality and amount of land, producer organizations, and the rural policies in force. Implementation of differentiated local policies, interinstitutional coordination, and community participation could contribute to improve effectiveness of the policies aimed at eradicating food insecurity. Key words: income strategy, food insecurity, public policies, Mexico.