Evaluating The Effects of Social Innovations on Food Security in Refugee Camps: A Case of Dalili Application in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya

Abstract

With traditional aid approaches failing to address the ever-evolving needs of refugees, there is a growing demand for more sustainable and innovative solutions. This study contributes to understanding the role of digital solutions in humanitarian aid, offering better insights into the wider use of social innovations in addressing food insecurity in protracted refugee settings. To evaluate the effects of social innovations on food security in refugee camps, with reference to the Dalili Application in Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, the study’s objectives focused on examining the extent of food insecurity in the camp, the prevalence of the use of Dalili, strategies employed to enhance Dalili use and the effects of resource inadequacy on food insecurity. Grounded in the Program and Diffusion of Innovation Theories, the research aimed to provide a comprehensive framework to assess both the effectiveness of the Dalili Application as well as factors influencing its use and impact in curbing food insecurity in Kakuma Refugee Camp. The research targeted the adult refugee population in Kakuma Refugee Camp. Stratified random sampling was used resulting in 373 respondents from the expected 399 respondents. The study employed mixed methods and data collection involved both qualitative and quantitative approaches, utilizing questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Data analysis was done using MS Excel and NVivo, with results presented in narrative form, charts, and tables. Findings from the study revealed a high prevalence of food insecurity in the camp, especially among respondents without income generating livelihood opportunities. On usage of the app, approximately 47.72% of refugees used the Dalili app to make their food purchases. Several strategies have been employed to promote the app included campaigns, discounts, and referral programs. Among all these, announcements made at the Food Distribution Centre rank as the primary source of Dalili awareness, attributed to the trust that refugees have in aid organizations operating in the camp directly providing them with information. The youth (18-34 years) were found to preferred social media as their source of Dalili information with majority receiving updates from X (formerly known as Twitter) and Facebook. Availability of resources was found to be wanting in the camp with many of the respondents citing financial strain. Inadequacy of resources was therefore identified as a key factor affecting affordability and successively promoting food insecurity in the camp. Barriers to successful Dalili application adoption included limited internet and electricity infrastructure, restricted smartphone access, language barriers, and the high cost of food in Dalili shops. The study concluded that while social innovations like the Dalili application play a crucial role in providing modern approaches to addressing food insecurity, more condensed efforts are required to bridge the existing infrastructural gaps and increase livelihood opportunities to boost income generation. The study recommends expanding livelihood opportunities for refugees, leveraging on trusted channels within the camp to popularize Dalili and addressing identified barriers to digital penetration in the camp.