Africa: Different Approaches to Food Security in an Era of Climate Change, Rising Geo-Political Tensions, and Global Trade Fragmentation - Part I

Africa today remains far from food secure. Chronic malnutrition, widespread anemia among women of childbearing age, stunting and wasting among young children, pervasive underemployment in both rural and urban areas, and a youth bulge frustrated by high unemployment are key features of a continent that is seriously off track with respect to the SDG deadline: only 6% of SDGs have been implemented (Mo Ibrahim Forum, 2025). Despite this dismal progress, Africa can still achieve “The Africa We Want” under Agenda 2063. Africans aspire to a continent characterized by shared prosperity and well-being (see Annex 1). What should the leadership do? In a world marked by instability and repeated climate-related shocks, the Mo Ibrahim Forum (2025) calls for a critical assessment of the current “business-as-usual” approach and a decisive shift in direction. Specifically, according to the Mo Ibrahim Forum, a highly indebted Africa must prioritize governance, the rule of law, and security. Key policy actions include promoting a positive incentive system to attract private investment, both domestic and foreign; mobilizingsubstantial domestic financial resources currently lost through billions in illicit financial flows; implementing the AfCFTA; and investing in infrastructure (both hardware and software, including human capital) required to support an inclusive and sustainable development path. Given that higher productivity and more resilient agriculture are essential for improved food security in a continent still heavily dependent on agriculture, sustained investment in the sector—leveraging the AfCFTA—can transform Africa’s food security prospects.