Rethinking Africa's Food Policy in Terms Rights

The paper argues that basic rights approach is more applicable food policy in Africa than the traditional basic needs approach. The problem pertains to the introduction of right to food as a policy innovation in an environment wherein policy authorities are generally averse to rights issues that put pressure on them for programme accountability, public probity and policy due diligence. Towards resolving the problem, a methodology was stylized as ‘policy action research and development’ (PAR&D) which involved practical engagement of policy stakeholders and general public in practical learning and action for the introduction and adoption of right to food as a policy innovation. Results indicated that the adoption process could be slow in the presence of certain constraints and challenges encountered in the process, but there were positive signals that the policy change would happen as envisaged. The policy and practice changes observed include increasing public knowledge and interest about right to food issues coupled with increased rights consciousness of the people, as well as enhanced recognition of right to food by policy authorities. The recommended way forward is to reinforce the relevant organizations as change agents for institutionalizing right to food as a policy philosophy for the commercialization of Africa’s food sector.