Africa Food Shortages and Agricultural Output

 Hello Africa,

Sub-Sahara Africa is largely rural, with over 60 percent of the total population, and an average growth rate of 2 percent, this is projected to increase to 65 percent by the turn of the century. As of 2006, over 400 million people live in the rural areas in sub-Sahara Africa, and this figure represented 42 percent of the total population. Rural Africa is characterized by a smaller population, in comparison with urban Africa, abundant resources, an aging population, lower cost and standard of living, lower wages, and high poverty levels.

Sadly, 226.7 million Africans go hungry daily and face food insecurity, and majority of the country most affected are in sub-Sahara Africa. United Nations (2022) report showed that between 2019 and 2022, 46 million Africans became hungry. Africa is the only region of the world where a larger share of the population suffer from hunger. Households spends over 70 percent of their income on food. 


Hunger in Africa: Source, Anadolu Agency (2021)

Developing countries of Africa remain largely agrarian, The agricultural sector of these countries has contributed immensely in supporting and promoting economic growth and development. Agricultural output, has not only bridge the gap in food shortages, has raised the level of welfare and incomes of the rural population which has led to an increase in the demand for industrial goods, and the development of the industrial sector.

Agriculture in Africa: Source, African Times (2018)

Agricultural sector in Africa contributes a larger share to the GDP of most African countries. However, this is not reflected in the size of this sector, as total output results from the use of crude implements, small-scale farming, and subsistence farming which often leads to low yields. The agricultural sector is the natural resource sector and provides the foundation for human existence. This sector remains the most crucial for agricultural productivity and economic growth, and growth in productivity is the main driver for raising rural incomes and purchasing power. 

Rural Communities in Africa: Source, Telecoms.com (2010)

Africa should start prioritizing rural development strategies for agricultural output and economic growth. This can be achieved by raising annual expenditure of rural infrastructure, projects, and human capital. This will ultimately  ensure the long run self sufficiency and food security. Overall, a sound monetary and fiscal policies can raise government expenditure in other areas by way of agricultural inputs and assistance, as the role of government is vital in rural and agricultural development. 

Africa imported about 85 percent of its food need between 2016 and 2018. This figure amounts to $35 billion, and this figure is expected to rise above $100 billion by 2025. Africa cannot continue to depend on imported food items from the rest of the world. The agricultural sector is a priority sector, and it must be made profitable to attract the teaming youth population, local farmers, and foreign investors. 

Agriculture and natural resource endowment are major drivers of industrialization. 

Enoma Ojo (2022)

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