Family Role in Food Security in Obesogenic Societies: Insights from the Sokoto Caliphate

Abstract

The paper discusses the role of family in land management and farming activities in the context of the Sokoto Caliphate, led by Usmanu Danfodiyo and application in food security in obesogenic societies. The Caliphate emphasized food security through farming, with families owning land for cultivation and animal rearing. The family structure included the head of the household, members like wives, children, and others contributing to farming for food security and economic development. Key points from the paper are: Family role in food security (families in the Sokoto Caliphate engaged in farming for food security); farming practices (subsistence agriculture, animal rearing, and mixed farming were practiced); and gender roles (fathers led farming activities, mothers contributed to food processing and preparation, and children helped with light work). The paper discusses lessons from the Sokoto Caliphate's family structure and role in food security that can be applied to counter the current obesogenic culture affecting world populations.