Food and Nutritional Security in Africa: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Objectives: The main objective of the study is to investigate the food and nutritional security of Africa. Methods: An analysis of the long-term statistical trends in the quantitative data and a systematic qualitative literature review were the methodology used. Results: P {margin-bottom: 0.21 cm of the case study countries, Zambia showed deteriorating performance in caloric food supply. Nigeria, Sudan and Madagascar have also shown a reduction in the level of caloric food supply over the past couple of years. P { margin-bottom: 0.21 cm;} Africa showed impressive economic growth over the last decade. While it was widespread, those countries with less dependence on mineral resources showed better performance in poverty reduction and income distribution. P {margin-bottom: 0.21 cm;} Child malnutrition was decreasing in the case study countries. However, the level of micronutrient deficiency, especially in children under the age of five, was found to be high in almost all of the case study countries. Conclusions: P {margin-bottom: 0.21 cm;} Agricultural growth in Africa remains the centrepiece of food and nutritional security. Besides its importance as an engine for economic growth, agriculture enhances nutritional security through the provision of cheap and nutritious food, and nutrition-enhancing methods of industrial fortification and bio-fortification; it also allows the nutritional needs of remote rural areas to be addressed by using extension services.