Guidelines for Potential Strengthening in Food Security: A Case Study of Ban Thiphiye, Chalae Subdistrict, Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi Province

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to (1) explore the context of Ban Thiphuye community; (2) investigate the food production system and food security of the community; and (3) analyze guidelines for potential strengthening of food security of the community.  This qualitative research employed applied anthropological research methods to collect data from two groups of representatives of related developmental organizations, recruited through purposive sampling.  Secondary data were compiled, and primary data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews, community forums, and focus group discussions, and participant and non-participant observations.  The data were then performed. The study found that “Thiphuye” in the Karen language refers to a small creek with a kind of palm tree called “Tao Rang” growing abundantly around it.  In Ban Thiphuye community, Pwo Karen is the main ethnic group of locals.  Their way of life is agricultural society; they hunt for forest products and adhere to kin relationships.  The community’s concept of food security is readiness of fertile natural resource bases that have food available all year round according to the season.  The production system in the community is that of subsistent agriculture. Their living depends on local resource bases adapted for use through wisdoms inherited from the past. Thus, their way of life corresponds with the concept of sustainable agriculture or alternative agriculture that has been passed down to them and given them flexibility and ability to adapt to the changing situation of the time.  They also adhere to rules of relations between rituals and beliefs and their system of up-land rice farming.  The community strengthens its potential in food security as follows:  (1) Strengthening community potential in management of natural food sources, producing the main staples that are safe, sufficient, and diverse; and (2) Strengthening human capital to watch food security of the community and build a learning community on food security.