CHALLENGES TO FOOD SYSTEMS TRANSFORMATION IN AFRICA: CRITICAL REFLECTIONS

Abstract

The transformation of food systems includes shifting from a linear model of production, processing, distribution, consumption, and waste to a circular model that prioritizes sustainability and resilience. This involves increasing the efficiency of resource use, reducing food waste, promoting local and regional food systems, incorporating new technologies, enhancing supply chain transparency, and improving food safety and nutrition. Overall, the goal is to create a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable food system for all. Thus, the systemic transition of African food systems unto sustainable Farm-to-Fork paths will no doubt address historical nutrition, health, environmental, income, and policy issues linked to the systems. However, the diverse complex and multi-dimensional foci will require an equivalent long-term transformation strategy through engagement and priority setting to achieve landmark shifts in all key aspects of the system. Here, we critically examined the challenges to food systems transformation in Africa. We argue that the underdeveloped agricultural sector that over-relies on primary production with little or no value addition is one of the key challenges to food systems transformation in the continent. Other critical challenges to food systems transformation in Africa are poor market access, poor infrastructure, globalization, repressive policies, and climate change.

Keywords: Food systems, Food security, Food transformation, Sustainability, Food issues