Feature

THE POLITICS OF FOOD SECURITY

Published

3 years ago

May 3, 2022

By Matthew Eloyi

It may seem as though the world’s population is higher than its available resources hence it is estimated that between 720 and 811 million people in the world faced hunger in 2020, and around 660 million people may still face hunger in 2030. But in reality, the world produces twice as much food as is needed to feed its population. Global food production has expanded at a higher rate than global population growth for the past two decades. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that the globe produces more than 1 1/2 times enough food to feed everyone on the earth. That’s already enough to feed the world’s anticipated population peak of 10 billion people in 2050. Despite this abundance, hunger persists. How is this possible? The world’s inability to feed the entirety of its population is mostly due to food insecurity.

The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recognizes availability, access, utilization, and stability as the four pillars of food security. It defines food security as when “all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life.” In other words, food security refers to the availability of food and people’s ability to access it, while food insecurity is the inability to access a sufficient quantity of affordable, healthy meals on a consistent basis.

Food as a global resource has never really been scarce. Human politics, distribution system, capitalism, speculation/hoarding, power, war, and poor policy, are the factors of food insecurity in the world. The Bengal famine of 1943 is a perfect example of how war and distribution error contribute to food insecurity in the world. According to a study that provides empirical credence for assertions that Winston Churchill-era British policies were a crucial factor leading to the catastrophe, the Bengal famine of 1943 was the first one in modern Indian history that did not develop as a result of severe drought. In the words of the lead researcher, Vimal Mishra, “This was a unique famine, caused by policy failure instead of any monsoon failure.” Even though natural disasters, crop epidemics, and the fall of Burma – now Myanmar, which was a key source of rice imports, all curtailed food supplies to Bengal in the years leading up to 1943, Nobel Laureate economist Amartya Sen argued in 1981 that there should have been enough supplies to feed the region, and that the mass deaths were caused by a combination of wartime inflation, speculative buying, and panic hoarding, all of which combined to push the price of food out of reach of poor Bengalis.

According to recent research, especially one by a renowned Indian-American journalist and writer, Madhushree Mukerjee, Winston Churchill’s wartime cabinet in London aggravated the famine. According to Mukerjee, Churchill was frequently warned that using all of India’s resources for the war effort could lead to starvation, but he ignored the warnings and chose to continue shipping rice from India to other parts of the empire. In 1942-43, rice stocks continued to depart India despite London’s denial of India’s viceroy’s urgent plea for more than 1 million tonnes of emergency wheat supplies. Churchill is said to have blamed the famine on the fact that Indians were “breeding like rabbits” and questioned how Mahatma Gandhi was still alive despite the starvation. Mukerjee and others also point to Britain’s “denial policy” in the region, in which large quantities of rice and hundreds of boats were confiscated from Bengal’s coastal areas in order to deny the Japanese army resources in the event of an invasion.

The proliferation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which led to the disappearance of native cultivars in most parts of the world, is also a major source of food insecurity. Foods that have been genetically modified have had additional genes added to them from other organisms. They’ve been around since 1994, and they’re made in a similar method as genetic engineering. The technique employed in this sort of crop management was developed to help farmers and merchants increase crop or food quality in a more effective manner. Some argue that this technology will aid individuals in the agricultural industry in reducing the quantity of crops and foods that are wasted. While there are numerous advantages to eating genetically modified foods, there are also potential drawbacks, which limit our choice of food.

According to research, people with allergies may be at danger from genetically modified foods. There are also claims that genetic modification frequently introduces or combines proteins not seen in the original animal or plant, potentially causing novel allergic reactions in our bodies. In other words, proteins from organisms to which you are allergic may be introduced to species to which you were not previously allergic. As a result, your choice of food will be limited. Also, GMOs are not 100% environmentally friendly. Despite the fact that many experts argue that genetically modified foods are safe for the environment, they nevertheless contain a number of ingredients that have yet to be demonstrated to be so. What’s more, what’s the worst part? These compounds are kept hidden from the general populace. Another significant possible disadvantage of this technology is that it may affect some ecological creatures, resulting in a reduction in biodiversity. When we eradicate a pest that is detrimental to crops, we may be eliminating a food supply for a species. Furthermore, genetically engineered crops may be hazardous to other creatures, resulting in a reduction in their numbers or perhaps extinction.

Some genetically engineered foods, according to Iowa State University, have antibiotic characteristics integrated into them, making them resistant or immune to viruses, diseases, or infections. These antibiotic indicators will remain in our bodies after we ingest them, making antibiotic treatments less effective. The institution also advises that eating certain foods and being exposed to antibiotics on a frequent basis may cause antibiotics to lose their potency, as seen in hospitals around the world. When compared to ordinary foods on the market, genetically modified foods are also said to have an unnatural flavour. This could be due to the substances that were added to their formula. Genetically modified foods contain compounds that have been shown in scientific studies to cause sickness and even death in a variety of species, including humans. Mice and butterflies, for example, cannot subsist on these diets.

Economically, bringing a genetically modified crop to market can be a pricey and time-consuming procedure, and agricultural biotechnology companies, understandably, want to maximize their profits. Many novel plant genetic engineering technologies and products have been patented as a result, and patent infringement is a major worry in the agricultural industry. Furthermore, consumer advocates are concerned that this will drive up seed prices to the point that third-world countries and small farmers will be unable to purchase them, expanding the divide between the rich and the poor.

In Africa and rest of the third world, food insecurity results from poor policy and lack of continuity. The prospect of small farmers, who grow much of the world’s food, being hungry, is unsettling. Let’s take the Green Revolution policy as an example. Africa has experienced a boom in financing to help local food producers grow more of the region’s food since the 2007-8 food crises, when price hikes for global commodity crops increased the possibility of food shortages. African governments increased agricultural development spending, aided by international donors who recognized, for the first time in decades, that developing countries needed to grow more of their own food and that small-scale farmers could be a critical part of that effort rather than a hindrance to growth. High international crop prices lured private investment into agriculture for several years. The charge was driven by global philanthropies, which had recently been endowed with billions of dollars in technological earnings.

In 2006, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation collaborated with the Rockefeller Foundation to start the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), a well-funded international development organization. By 2020, AGRA aimed to double crop yield and incomes for 30 million small-scale farming households while also decreasing food insecurity in 20 African countries but it seemed to have failed. According to research, crop yield has slowed, poverty remains high, and the number of hungry people in Africa has increased. Only a few numbers of small-scale farmers have profited from the Green Revolution. Some people have become indebted as a result of the high costs of commercial seeds and synthetic fertilizer sold by Green Revolution proponents. Despite $1 billion in funding for AGRA and $1 billion in annual subsidies from African governments to persuade farmers to purchase these high-priced inputs, AGRA has a poor track record.

According to current projections, the world will not achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2, Zero Hunger by 2030, and most indicators, despite modest progress, will fail to fulfil global nutrition targets. According to the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2021 assessment, the health and socioeconomic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic are anticipated to worsen the food security and nutritional status of the world’s most vulnerable population groups. To avert this, governments are urged to include nutrition in their agricultural strategies; work to reduce cost-escalating factors in food production, storage, transportation, distribution, and marketing – including inefficiencies, food loss, and waste; support local small-scale producers to grow and sell more nutritious foods, and ensure their access to markets; prioritize children’s nutrition as the category most in need; and foster behaviour change through education.

Related Topics:Accessmagazine Accessnews AccessNewsMagazine food security

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Feature

Google and Nigeria: Collaborating for a Digital Tomorrow

Published

2 weeks ago

February 19, 2025

Matthew Eloyi

Google and Nigeria: Collaborating for a Digital Tomorrow

In an era where digital transformation is defining economic growth and global competitiveness, Nigeria is positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s technology revolution. With an ambitious partnership with Google, the country is set to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and digital infrastructure to drive innovation and economic diversification.

According to a report by Punch Newspaper, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently announced Nigeria’s commitment to leading AI innovations in Africa. His announcement came after a high-level engagement with SundarPichai, the Chief Executive Officer of Google and Alphabet, during a meeting in France. This partnership, as highlighted by the President, is designed to advance Nigeria’s role in AI and digital technology, reinforcing his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritisesindustrialisation, digitisation, and innovation.

Beyond governmental rhetoric, this collaboration aims to materialise into practical initiatives that will empower businesses, create jobs, and enhance Nigeria’s digital economy. The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy is expected to oversee the implementation of these initiatives, with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) playing a lead role in execution.

According to the Director-General of NITDA,KashifuInuwaAbdullahi CCIE, the partnership between Nigeria and Google is a critical step towardtowards making Nigeria a digitally empowered nation , fostering inclusive economic growth through technological innovation. . Speaking in a televised interview, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, he emphasised that the collaboration will focus on infrastructure development, upskilling Nigerian citizens, fostering AI innovation, adopting cloud technologies, and creating an investment-friendly environment.

One of the major areas of focus is the establishment of data centres to support Nigeria’s growing digital infrastructure, putting the country on the path of digital sovereignty The NITDA boss noted that no data centre globally relies solely on grid electricity. Thus, the integration of renewable energy sources and carbon credit initiatives will be key to the sustainability of this project.

Furthermore, the partnership aims to enhance digital literacy by embedding digital skills training across Nigeria’s educational system, from primary school to tertiary institutions. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of preparing the Nigerian workforce for emerging opportunities in the global digital economy.

While the collaboration with Google is extensive, Nigeria is also making strides in AI research through other strategic initiatives. President Tinubu highlighted Awarri Technologies as a key player in the AI space, with ongoing efforts to build critical AI software infrastructure tailored to Nigeria’s unique market needs.

The strategic partnership between Nigeria and Google represents a significant leap toward positioning the country as Africa’s digital powerhouse. By leveraging AI, cloud computing, and scalable digital infrastructure, Nigeria is on course to becoming a major player in the global technology landscape.

With the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy providing oversight and NITDA spearheading implementation, the collaboration promises to create new economic opportunities, enhance digital access, and equip Nigerians with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. As Nigeria embraces this digital revolution, the partnership with Google may well be the catalyst that propels the country into a future where technology drives inclusive growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

Feature

Edwin Clark and Ayo Adebanjo: The End of an Era of Fearless Advocacy

Published

2 weeks ago

February 18, 2025

Matthew Eloyi

Edwin Clark and Ayo Adebanjo: The End of an Era of Fearless Advocacy

The deaths of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, two of Nigeria’s most vocal and unyielding statesmen, mark the end of an era of relentless advocacy for equity, justice, and true federalism. These men, who dedicated their lives to championing the rights of their respective regions and the Nigerian nation as a whole, leave behind legacies that will continue to shape national discourse for generations to come.

Clark, the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), was a towering figure in the struggle for resource control, regional autonomy, and the equitable treatment of the Niger Delta region. His voice echoed through the corridors of power, demanding fairness in the distribution of the nation’s wealth, particularly in the oil-rich South-South region. His efforts to mediate peace among warring factions in the Niger Delta and his role in national reconciliation positioned him as a statesman whose influence went beyond his immediate region. Even at the age of 97, he remained unwavering in his pursuit of justice, exemplified by his recent intervention in the political rift between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike.

Pa Ayo Adebanjo, on the other hand, was the enduring face of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group. Adebanjo embodied the struggle for restructuring, consistently advocating for a return to true federalism—a cause he believed would address Nigeria’s persistent governance failures. He was a key figure in the push for the full implementation of the 2014 National Conference report, which he saw as a blueprint for resolving the country’s political and socio-economic challenges. His unapologetic stance on national issues, particularly his insistence on power devolution and fairness in political representation, made him a formidable figure in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Beyond their regional advocacies, both men shared a broader nationalistic vision. They were instrumental in uniting voices from different regions in the call for a South-Eastern presidency in 2023, recognizing the need for inclusivity and balance in Nigeria’s leadership. Their participation in the Greater Nigeria Conference and subsequent campaigns for restructuring underscored their commitment to a Nigeria where no group felt marginalized.

Their deaths, coming just days apart, are a significant loss to Nigeria’s political and ideological landscape. In a country where compromise often overrides principle, Clark and Adebanjo stood firm in their convictions, offering a rare brand of leadership rooted in history, experience, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. Their absence leaves a void that must now be filled by a new generation of leaders with the courage to speak truth to power and fight for the nation’s collective progress.

As Nigeria mourns these two titans, it must also reflect on the issues they fought for. The calls for restructuring, resource control, and fair governance remain as relevant today as ever. If anything, their passing should reignite the debate and inspire those who believe in a better Nigeria to pick up the mantle. Clark and Adebanjo may be gone, but the ideals they championed must not die with them.

Feature

Hon. Olushola Olofin: A Visionary Leader for the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF)

Published

1 month ago

January 24, 2025

Matthew Eloyi

By Zachariah C.H

The appointment of Hon. Olushola Olofin as the new Board Chairman of the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on January 24, 2025, marks a new dawn for the organization. Hon. Olofin is a seasoned professional with an impeccable track record in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and management, boasting over 20 years of experience both within Nigeria and internationally. His unique blend of expertise, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence positions him as the ideal leader to steer NSITF toward greater heights.

Hon. Olofin has been a driving force behind Nigeria’s digital transformation. As an ICT and management expert, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to harness cutting-edge technology to address complex challenges, fostering innovation and efficiency in every organization he has led. As a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Consultants, his strategic insights have revolutionized operations across sectors, leaving a legacy of progress and sustainability

Hon. Olofin’s extensive leadership experience spans multiple industries. He has served as Board Chairman, Managing Director, and Executive Director of prominent organizations, including Aquasilica Limited and Enrich Systems Limited. Currently, he serves as the Managing Director/CEO of SatCom Integrated Resources, a globally acclaimed ICT company, where his innovative leadership has propelled the company to new heights in the global marketplace. His ability to build, manage, and transform organizations makes him uniquely suited to lead the NSITF into a new era of accountability, transparency, and service delivery.

Hon. Olofin’s academic and professional credentials underscore his capability to excel in this pivotal role. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Abuja and a Master’s degree in Management Information Systems from the University of Espoo, Finland. Additionally, he has earned numerous professional certifications from world-renowned institutions, including:

•London Graduate School: Business Management

•AIRBUS SLC: Core Skilled Engineer and Programmer

•Certified SALTO Engineer: Spain

•Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

These certifications reflect his commitment to continuous learning and staying ahead of global trends in technology and management.

Hon. Olushola Olofin’s appointment comes at a critical time for the NSITF, an organization tasked with providing social insurance to Nigeria’s workforce. His extensive expertise in ICT and management will undoubtedly drive the modernization of the NSITF’s operations, ensuring efficient service delivery and increased accessibility. His leadership will foster innovation, strengthen transparency, and enhance the Fund’s impact on Nigerian workers and employers alike.

As a forward-thinking leader with a proven track record of excellence, Hon. Olofin is poised to transform the NSITF into a world-class institution, setting new benchmarks for social security administration in Nigeria. With his wealth of experience, strategic acumen, and passion for service, the NSITF is on the cusp of a brighter, more impactful future.

The Nigerian workforce can look forward to enhanced trust, efficiency, and innovation under the capable leadership of Hon. Olushola Olofin.