It’s time for India and Africa to deal with food and security issues together

Source: The post is based on the article “It’s time for India and Africa to deal with food and security issues together” published in Indian express on 18th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- International relation- Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. & GS3- Agriculture- food security

News: The author praises India’s leadership in the G20 and its inclusion of the African Union, making it G21. The article discusses the challenges of food and nutrition security faced by India and Africa due to climate change. The author suggests strategies like open trade, investment in climate adaptation, promoting women’s education, and improving sanitation to address these issues.

What are the challenges of food and nutrition security faced by India and Africa due to climate change?

High Undernourishment: India and Africa, with 36% of global population, are home to 69.4% (503 million) of the world’s undernourished people in 2020-22.

Child Malnutrition: The regions account for 67.0% and 75.8% of malnourished children under five, suffering from stunting and wasting.

Trade Decisions: India’s recent restrictions on rice and wheat exports can adversely affect global food security, particularly hurting African countries.

Climate Change Costs: Developing nations need $100 billion for loss and damage from climate change, crucial for mitigation and adaptation in these economies.

Rapid Population Growth: With Africa’s inclusion in G20, challenges intensify due to population growth, persistent poverty, and widespread undernourishment.

Nutritional Insecurity: High rates of malnutrition in both regions necessitate agriculture policies that are nutrition-sensitive.

What should be done?

Keep Borders Open: Ensure international borders remain open for agricultural trade. India exported 85 million tonnes of cereals in recent years, aiding global food security.

Financial Commitment: Developed countries should provide $100 billion for climate change-induced losses. This can support climate mitigation and adaptation in developing nations.

Private Investments: World Bank President Ajay Banga emphasized that private capital investments are crucial. Each dollar from developed nations should be matched by hybrid capital, potentially unlocking $6-7 billion for poorer countries over a decade.

South-South Collaboration: India and Africa should engage in a comparative analysis to share strategies for sustainable agriculture and food systems.

Bio-Fortification: Promote bio-fortification of staple crops. Examples include iron and zinc bio-fortified millet, rice, and beans, developed by CGIAR and ICAR.

Promote Women’s Education: Highlighted by ICRIER’s study, educated women lead to better nutritional outcomes. Increase female higher education by offering scholarships, which can help reduce dropouts.

WASH Initiatives: Invest in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs. Like India’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, which increased sanitation coverage, similar initiatives can help reduce malnutrition.