Hunger continues to be one of the most urgent global challenges, impacting millions of individuals across the globe. As reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 828 million people were undernourished worldwide as of 2021, with a significant number located in Africa.
This continent experiences the highest levels of food insecurity, with over 300 million individuals—approximately one in five—suffering from chronic hunger, which accounts for about 20% of Africa’s population. The causes of hunger are intricate and varied, often arising from a blend of socio-economic issues, political instability, and environmental obstacles.
In the IGAD region, countries such as Ethiopia, Somalia, and South Sudan are particularly vulnerable to hunger, as ongoing conflicts have intensified the crisis. Prolonged wars and civil unrest disrupt agricultural production, displace populations, and obstruct humanitarian assistance, leaving millions at risk of starvation.
Climate change exacerbates food insecurity by causing extreme weather events that negatively impact crop yields and livestock health. Furthermore, economic challenges, including poverty and unemployment, hinder many individuals from obtaining adequate and nutritious food.
Erratic weather patterns and severe events, such as droughts and floods, have become increasingly common and intense. For example, the El Niño phenomenon has resulted in devastating drought conditions in the Horn of Africa, reducing crop yields and causing livestock fatalities. In many parts of the world, agriculture serves as the primary means of livelihood; thus, such climatic shocks can have catastrophic effects, driving communities further into poverty and hunger.
The interaction between conflict and climate change creates a relentless cycle that is difficult to escape. In East Africa, the combination of armed conflict and environmental degradation has heightened competition for limited resources, further escalating tensions and violence. Communities that depend on farming and pastoralism are particularly affected.
Climate change not only affects food security but also presents challenges related to food handling and the insufficient technology for storing food without causing pollution. For example, nearly one-third of global food production is lost or wasted each year, leading to economic losses estimated at one trillion USD. In Sub-Saharan Africa, this loss is approximately 37%, translating to 120–170 kg per person annually.
A significant factor contributing to this crisis is the inadequacies in infrastructure and logistics. The Food and Agriculture Organization has reported that a troubling 30–40% of food produced in Africa is lost before it reaches consumers. To effectively combat hunger, a multifaceted strategy is necessary, which includes improving agricultural methods, enhancing food distribution networks, and creating economic opportunities for at-risk populations.
As global citizens, it is crucial to support policies and initiatives aimed at eliminating hunger and ensuring that all individuals have access to the nutrition required for their well-being. Recently, Ethiopia has hosted conferences focused on a world without hunger, which have contributed to reducing poverty and hunger across the continent.
The 2025 African Agricultural Development Program has set an ambitious target of eradicating hunger throughout Africa. However, research indicates that the continent still faces considerable obstacles in achieving food security. Musa Faki Mahamat, the Chairman of the African Union, pointed out that Africa possesses 60 percent of the world’s arable land, yet paradoxically, around 230 million Africans suffer from food insecurity.
This stark disparity raises critical questions regarding agricultural practices and policies throughout the continent. He noted that the integrated agricultural development program led by the African Union has not yet produced the expected results. To address this issue and ensure food sovereignty in Africa, the chairman called for the expansion of efforts in this area.
In the 2016 E.C. fiscal year alone, Ethiopia produced over 230 million quintals of wheat, showcasing its capabilities in agricultural self-sufficiency.
Abiy acknowledged the numerous challenges that have historically hindered food security in Ethiopia, including a lack of high-quality seeds, insufficient agricultural inputs, and adverse environmental factors such as droughts and floods.
The Chairman highlighted Ethiopia as a beacon of hope and a model for agricultural development that can inspire both African nations and the global community.
He emphasized that Ethiopia’s successes in food production over recent years provide a valuable lesson not just for African countries but for the world at large. By leveraging knowledge transfer and technology, nations can work towards eradicating hunger.
Abiy mentioned that natural disasters have posed significant threats to agricultural stability. However, he highlighted the Green Legacy Program, under which Ethiopia has planted 40 billion saplings, as a critical initiative that not only boosts agricultural productivity but also combats climate change.
He noted that Ethiopia has implemented strategic changes that have significantly enhanced agricultural productivity. This transformation includes the effective use of arable land, which has led to substantial increases in the yields of staple crops like wheat, teff, corn, and barley.
These achievements underline the significance of strategic planning and investment in agriculture as essential components of food security.
Despite the progress made, the chairman pointed out a significant gap in the commitment to implementing resolutions aimed at ensuring food security in Africa. He urged African nations to adhere to the decisions made to eradicate hunger, framing this as a strategic priority for the continent. The involvement of development partners and other stakeholders is also crucial in addressing the challenges that hinder food security.
The Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Gerd Muller, echoed these sentiments, stating that hunger is a global issue requiring concerted efforts and shared knowledge.
He underscored the need for technical and financial resources to bring about meaningful change in Africa’s food systems. It requires a strategic action plan that encourages entrepreneurship, establishes business value chains, and attracts investment to boost sustainable productivity.
By strengthening food system management and fostering collaboration among various actors, Africa can pave the way for a hunger-free future.
Africa possesses vast natural resources that, if utilized effectively, can ensure food security for its population. The chairman noted that adopting modern agricultural practices, mitigating the effects of climate change, and focusing on the cultivation of drought-resistant crops should be central to Africa’s agricultural agenda. The lessons learned from Ethiopia’s transition from food importer to exporter should inspire other African nations to embrace similar paths.
He further stated that development strategies must prioritize conflict resolution and fundamental development to create a conducive environment for agricultural advancement. Ethiopia’s experience demonstrates that with the right policies and commitment, it is indeed possible for African nations to rise from poverty to prosperity through agriculture.
Looking ahead, the director estimated that an additional 50 billion USD in financial support will be necessary over the next decade to achieve a hunger-free world. This funding will be critical for implementing the transformative changes needed in the agricultural sector.
By prioritizing investment in agriculture and leveraging Africa’s rich resources, the continent can take significant strides towards eradicating hunger.
Efforts to combat hunger must address these underlying causes, focusing not only on immediate food aid but also on building resilience among vulnerable populations. This includes investing in sustainable agricultural practices, improving infrastructure, and fostering peace and stability in conflict-affected areas.
Moreover, international collaboration is crucial in addressing these challenges. Global initiatives such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals aim to eradicate hunger by 2030. However, achieving this goal requires a concerted effort from governments, NGOs, and local communities to create sustainable solutions that consider the unique socio-economic and environmental contexts of each region.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 10 NOVEMBER 2024
