Africa: Impact of war on Ukraine grows.
More Afrika, has warned, since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, about the possible impact that this could have on the economies of the African continent. We drew attention to the food issue, especially the dependence on certain products, such as wheat, when sanctions against Russia were imposed.
our notice
Right at the beginning of this pointless war, we warned that African wheat imports represent more than 80% of trade with Russia and almost 50% with Ukraine. It is not just North African countries that are most directly affected, as some analysts claim.
We also warn against euphoria in relation to the increase in the price of Brent oil, considering that, although Africa is an oil exporter, the continent imports its derivatives, such as fertilizers for agriculture, due to the lack of a transforming petrochemical industry .
Proof of this were the recent significant increases in fuel and gas prices, aggravating the economic situation in African countries, where transport and energy costs directly affect the production and distribution of food.
The consequences of the war
We have reported and analyzed the rise in prices of some basic products in the food basket that rise almost daily due to the war. This phenomenon will have a substantial and negative impact on the most vulnerable families on the continent, especially those who struggle daily to feed their children.
In addition, the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and the growing pressure on limited resources in neighboring countries raise concerns about the possibility of a wave of refugees and internally displaced people that could hit Africa.
The war in Ukraine, the sanctions imposed against Russia and the effects of climate change on a continent that, despite having 60% of arable land, continues to depend on food imports. This is bad news for Africa, which at the moment is still struggling to overcome the negative legacy of the pandemic on the continent's economic and social effects.
the solutions
Just as the pandemic served as a motto for Africa to invest in its own pharmaceutical industry, war and the threat of famine, as well as potential social conflicts due to rising prices of basic commodities on the continent, should encourage investment and the development of agriculture and the African agri-food industry.
Initiatives such as the creation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) are important steps towards strengthening regional economic integration and increasing the continent's resilience in the face of external crises.
The AfCFTA has the potential to boost intra-African trade, promote investment in agricultural and agro-industrial infrastructure and thereby reduce Africa's food dependence on imports.
Once again, Africa finds itself dependent on conflicts and sanctions imposed on others. However, there is alight of hope at the end of the tunnel”, as local and regional initiatives are gaining strength to face current challenges.
Conclusion
The lack of resilient agriculture and agribusiness adapted to climate change highlights the urgent need for better public and private policies.
Greater access to finance and the development of agro-industrial processing zones that can add value to African food producers and protect populations in periods of international crises, such as the present war that affect the continent, are fundamental.
Investing in sustainable agricultural technologies, training and empowering farmers and developing local value chains are also key to addressing Africa's food and climate challenges.
What do you think of this African food dependency caused by this war? Shouldn't Africa invest more in transformation and agriculture? We want to know your opinion, do not hesitate to comment and, if you liked the article, share it and give it a “like”.
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Picture: © 2022 Francisco Lopes-Santos
