Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on the Livelihoods of Paddy Farmers in Kendari, Indonesia

This study investigates the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the livelihoods of paddy farmers in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, with particular attention to income changes, perceived disruptions, future outlook, and coping strategies. Data were collected through structured interviews with 69 randomly selected farmers in Kelurahan Amohalo and Labibia during the height of the pandemic in 2020. Results indicate that mobility restrictions, the low price of unmilled rice, and the fear of leaving the house were the main perceived causes of livelihood hardship. Approximately 60% of respondents reported income declines, primarily due to reduced market access and falling paddy prices. A majority of farmers expressed concern that the pandemic would continue to adversely affect their livelihoods in the future, highlighting long-term vulnerability. Coping strategies ranged from consumption adjustments, borrowing, and asset liquidation to reliance on government and community assistance. Notably, the availability of sago starch as a stable alternative staple and the use of home yards for growing food crops provided important buffers. Although receiving government aid was the most commonly cited coping mechanism, it underscores the critical role of external support rather than internal resilience alone. Policy recommendations include strengthening social safety nets, ensuring access to inputs, offering debt relief, and enhancing market linkages.