A Philosophical Appraisal of the Politics and Economics of Food in Africa

The continent of Africa has recorded impressive economic growth for over two decades. Factors identified as contributing to this growth include commercial oil deposits, inflation control, government liberalization and privatization policies, foreign direct investment, private sector investment in industries such as construction and service sectors, and a strong agricultural production. The continent is likely to continue enjoying strong economic growth if these resources are well managed.

Africa’s growing demand for food has been met increasingly by imports from the global market. This, coupled with rising global food prices, brings ever-mounting food import bills. In addition, population growth and changing demand patterns will double demands over the next 10 years. Clearly, business as usual with food staples is not sustainable. To fully understand this and address it, it is bordered by political and economic intrigues.

However, despite the strong economic growth seen over years, Africa has continually experienced food challenges associated with health, poverty and hunger as evidenced by the Global Hunger Index (GHI). The proportion of the undernourished in the population, the prevalence of underweight children, and the mortality rate of children and adults, all linked to food security, availability of food with concerns raised about the politics and economics of food. Thus, the need for an exploration of how food relates to some areas of philosophical inquiry, contemplating questions of what food is, how should it be produced and distributed, this will help us think clearly about what we produce and consume.