Food security in Africa

The underdevelopment of Africa's agriculture sector is becoming an increasingly grave threat to national security across the continent. This assertion was echoed by panelists at the 11th Africa Economic Conference held in Abuja. CNBC Africa's Wole Famurewa recently interviewed Abdalla Hamdok, Acting Executive Secretary at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, shedding light on the critical issues surrounding food security and policy-making in Africa. Hamdok stressed the pivotal role of food security in ensuring not only national but continental security. He drew attention to the interconnectedness of factors such as rebellion, terrorism, and youth unemployment, emphasizing their contribution to societal insecurity. The scarcity of opportunities for young people, especially in rural areas, has led to a ticking time bomb situation, pushing them towards rebel movements and terrorist organizations. Hamdok underscored the necessity of providing the youth with the right incentives and frameworks for productive employment, steering them away from the allure of violence. Furthermore, the discussion delved into the significance of integrating women into agriculture to drive development agendas forward. Despite being responsible for a significant portion of food production in rural areas, women face challenges in accessing credit, finance, and land ownership. Hamdok called for urgent policy responses to address this gender disparity, recognizing the crucial role women play in the agricultural sector. Transitioning from a technical view of development to a more political perspective, Hamdok emphasized the indispensable role of visionary leadership in advancing national growth. Citing examples from Southeast Asia, particularly the transformation of Korea through decisive leadership, he highlighted the need for strategic government intervention to steer African countries towards sustainable development pathways. Hamdok lauded countries like Ethiopia and Rwanda for their efforts in prioritizing education in science and technology, as well as promoting industrialization and value addition in their economies. In conclusion, Hamdok emphasized the importance of leveraging homegrown African experiences to drive development, rather than constantly looking to external models for inspiration. By fostering leadership, investing in education, empowering women in agriculture, and promoting industrialization, African nations can chart a course towards food security, economic prosperity, and ultimately, national security. The insights shared by Hamdok shed light on the critical need for concerted efforts to revitalize Africa's agriculture sector, harnessing its potential to not only feed populations but also fuel economic growth and bolster security across the continent.