The likely weakened state of the World Food Programme, resulting from the Trump Administration’s decision to downsize USAID, should serve as a wake-up call to African governments to improve their agricultural production seriously.
You see, few countries in Southern Africa typically have surplus production of staple grains. In most seasons, South Africa, Zambia, and Tanzania are the primary producers with a surplus for export. Some countries, such as Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Mozambique, typically import grains in most seasons.
While imports are partly handled by the private sector, in times of crisis – whether caused by droughts or floods – the World Food Programme typically intervenes to assist. Such rough times are not consistent throughout the year, but at sensitive times, such as the end of the year, when grain supplies from past seasons are somewhat depleted, countries look forward to the new season.
In a season, one would typically read about the need for food supplies between November and March, before the new crop harvest season begins. Countries with grain surpluses, such as South Africa and Zambia, would be the leading exporters to the region at such times. Amongst the importers (buyers) is the World Food Programme (WFP), which then distributes food parcels to various vulnerable communities.
We have learned from various media reports that the WFP is closing some of its offices in Southern Africa and will operate out of Nairobi, Kenya.
On the face of it, such a move would not be a worry, especially if they continue with their aid efforts regardless of where they operate from. Indeed, the WFP spokesperson was quoted in The Guardian, a newspaper, saying:
“Our commitment to serving vulnerable communities is as strong as ever, and WFP remains committed to ensuring our operations are as effective and efficient as possible in meeting the needs of those facing hunger.”
This reorientation of the WFP resulted from reduced funding due to the Trump Administration’s closure of various USAID operations, which had been one of the WFP’s supporters.
We do not know the full impact of this on the effectiveness of the WFP. However, it is worth highlighting that roughly half of its budget is funded by the U.S. This raises concern that the optimistic statement by the WFP’s spokesperson, which I highlighted above, may be more about managing the optics than an indication of its effectiveness in the future.
I must admit that the Trump Administration has stated that it intends to modify some of its support for food needs through the WFP. They are not completely walking away. However, whether the modification maintains or even improves the effectiveness of the WFP remains to be seen. It is sufficient to say that if the funding is cut, there are risks for various countries in Africa and the Middle East.
However, the whole food issue in Africa should not necessarily be an American problem, at least in the medium term. The African leaders must act on what they always preach about the importance of agriculture. We have heard speeches on numerous occasions about how this sector is essential and will support Africa’s economic growth and job creation. However, we rarely see meaningful policy changes that drive the industry forward.
I believe that if we can address the following five points, we can see a meaningful improvement in Africa’s agricultural and food security conditions over time. The starting points could be:
- Extending title deeds or tradable leases to farmers and agribusinesses is vital for attracting investment.
- Investments in infrastructure are critical for improving value chains.
- Embracing technological advancements in seeds, genetics, and agrochemicals can boost productivity.
- Limited trade and commodity price interventions are essential for ensuring policy certainty and attracting investment.
- Supporting commercial farming, which is essential for the growth of the agro-processing sector in various countries’ food systems and as a source of employment, is a critical step for agricultural progress in Africa.
These are complex policy matters that require a shift in mindset, as well as detailed analysis and focused programmes under each point. But over time, if implemented, they could free the African continent from its deep dependence on food aid.
Our poverty problem in Africa is more a political issue than a scientific one. Politicians must lead with action and policy change, focusing less on grand speeches and gatherings that have yielded little in the recent past.
The WFP’s likely weaknesses should serve as a lesson for us all to wake up and drive Africa’s agricultural development.
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