Policy reforms to combat food insecurity and economic crisis in sub Saharan Africa

What is it about?

Climate change, COVID 19, and the war in Ukraine have negatively affected the problem of food scarcity. This is especially true in sub Saharan Africa (SSA). Since 2020, food insecurity has increased by at least 30% in SSA. Further, natural shock events like droughts, earthquakes, floods, and storms affect the food production and distribution as well. This makes it difficult for people to access and consume food. In turn, this leads to malnutrition, poor childhood development, education, and earning potential. To tackle these problems, SSA needs the attention of policymakers. This paper discusses how to make and implement such policies, given the lack of money in poor areas. It emphasizes property rights, making food more affordable for poorer households, digital access, and mobile banking as ways to help the people in SSA. In addition, lower taxes and more flexible laws for buying or selling food products can enable better access to food.

Featured Image

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Climate change, pandemic, natural disasters and the recent war in Ukraine have raised food scarcity in SSA. Hunger and poverty are common as people struggle to gain access to food. The poor population cannot afford education for their children, lowering the social development in SSA as well. As a result, it is urgent to make sensible policies to salvage the social and economic status of SSA. Solving these problems is challenging and difficult in a short span of time. But, changes in trade, regulation, and market structure policies can improve people’s standard of living without increasing financial pressures. KEY TAKEAWAY: Financial support is crucial for the development of SSA. Policies for market laws and food distribution can improve the access to food for poorer households. Disclaimer - This summary was prepared by Kudos Innovations Ltd and does not necessarily represent the views of International Monetary Fund (IMF).