Prevalence and associated factors of multidimensional poverty among rural households in West Gojjam Zone, northern Ethiopia: a household-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundMultidimensional poverty, encompassing deprivations in education, health, and living standards, is a significant challenge in rural Ethiopia. Despite various development initiatives, poverty remains pervasive in the West Gojjam Zone of northern Ethiopia. This study aims to assess the extent of multidimensional poverty in this region and identify key factors contributing to the likelihood of households experiencing it.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in the West Gojjam Zone, involving 628 rural households selected through a multi-stage sampling approach. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate the multidimensional poverty index (MPI), focusing on poverty incidence, gap, and severity. A binary logistic regression model was applied to examine the relationship between household characteristics and the likelihood of being multidimensionally poor.ResultsThe study revealed that 93.95% of households in the West Gojjam Zone experience multidimensional poverty, with an intensity of 61.17% and an adjusted multidimensional headcount ratio of 57.47%. Key factors associated with a lower likelihood of multidimensional poverty include land ownership, off-farm income, year-round road access, the frequency of agricultural extension services, and access to loans. Conversely, the age of household heads is positively associated with an increased likelihood of poverty, with older household heads being more vulnerable.ConclusionsThe findings highlight that multidimensional poverty in the West Gojjam Zone is primarily driven by limited access to land, financial services, infrastructure, and agricultural support. Furthermore, older household heads are particularly at risk. To address these challenges, the study recommends policies that focus on enhancing agricultural productivity, expanding access to financial services, improving road infrastructure, and fostering non-farm income-generating activities. Strengthening agricultural extension services is essential to enhancing household resilience and reducing poverty.