This study explores the relationship between household competencies, enabling environments, and women’s empowerment in improving food security, dietary diversity, and food safety at the household level. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from household surveys (n=500) on food insecurity, dietary diversity, and financial inclusion with qualitative interviews and focus group discussions. The findings reveal that households in rural areas experience significantly higher levels of food insecurity and lower dietary diversity compared to peri-urban households. Women’s empowerment, particularly in food-related decision-making, was found to have a strong positive impact on improving food security and dietary diversity. Financial inclusion, specifically access to credit and savings, also emerged as a key factor in managing food insecurity and adopting healthier diets. Additionally, higher-income and more educated households were more likely to engage in safe food handling and hygiene practices, underscoring the socio-economic determinants of food safety. This research highlights the need for integrated interventions that combine food literacy, financial inclusion, and gender-responsive policies to improve household nutrition and food safety outcomes. The results suggest that empowering women, promoting financial inclusion, and improving food literacy can create a sustainable pathway to better food security and health. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of multi-sectoral approaches that address the underlying socio-economic, environmental, and policy barriers to household food security and nutrition, with a particular focus on rural areas.