The creation of a household resilience index using limited data from the IGAD region

Abstract

Given that data in the Horn of Africa is limited, one is more likely to obtain relatively complete data when using a model comprised of a more limited set of targeted indicators. In this way, a model of resilience should be as parsimonious as possible in providing the most value, given its purpose, with the least amount of inputs. Furthermore, if the goal is to periodically update the model’s index to evaluate changes over time, one needs to have access to data that are collected regularly (or that could conceivably be collected regularly). With these considerations in mind, the construction of a narrower and focused Household Resilience Index that captures a measure of human well-being is recommended as an alternative to a more complex, composite index for use in resilience M&E. This report shows how such an index can be readily created for most of East Africa using available data, that is robust to alternative specifications. It also details how multiples waves of data for Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia allow one to create a time-series measure of change at the sub-national level in those three countries. For those requiring a more complex measure of resilience, a review of FEWSNET’s acute food insecurity methodology and their newly released chronic food insecurity scale is provided.