Food security remains a major challenge globally, and Africa is suffering the most serious consequences. On the occasion of World Food Day, October 16, 2023, Proparco published the 39th edition of its journal Private Sector & Developmenthighlighting the crucial role that the private sector can play in the fight against hunger and malnutrition.
Alarming figures that call for action
According to estimates from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), nearly 800 million people worldwide suffer from hunger, while more than 2 billion live in chronic food insecurity. Africa, with its multiple economic, climatic and geopolitical vulnerabilities, is particularly affected. These challenges have been compounded by the economic repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the effects of climate change.
A private sector committed to sustainable solutions
The review highlights the importance of strengthened cooperation between the public and private sectors to guarantee access to healthy and sustainable food. According to Françoise Lombard, Managing Director of Proparco, “food security is a challenge that requires the mobilization of the international community and closer cooperation between private and public actors”.
Through concrete examples, this edition highlights innovative initiatives led by companies and entrepreneurs that contribute to the resilience of food systems. Among the themes covered are:
- Contract farming : a model that helps secure farmers’ income while guaranteeing an efficient supply chain.
- Resilience to climate change : technological solutions and financing to help farmers adapt to climatic hazards.
- The role of public policies : essential to support the development of local agricultural sectors and encourage partnerships with the private sector.
Towards sustainable food security for Africa
This publication highlights concrete ways to further involve the private sector in the fight against food insecurity. Collaboration between entrepreneurs, governments and international partners is essential to building more resilient and inclusive food systems.
For Africa, the potential is immense: developing local agricultural value chains, supporting technological innovation in agriculture, and mobilizing private financing to strengthen the continent’s food sovereignty.
In conclusion, this edition of Private Sector & Development offers in-depth thinking and pragmatic solutions for the private sector to help address a global challenge. Africa, with its specific opportunities and challenges, could position itself as a leader in this essential transformation.
VivAfrik will closely monitor progress in this area, because sustainable food security is a sine qua non condition for the development of the continent.
