Food security in Africa: How to bridge the information gap between researchers & policy makers

Safeguarding food and nutrition security is crucial for Africa to combat issues of hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. Vitumbiko Chinoko, the Project Manager of Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology at the African Agricultural Technology Foundation, discusses the importance of agricultural technology interventions in addressing food security in Africa. According to Chinoko, Africa is facing significant challenges related to food production, nutrition, and purchasing power, with Kenya currently experiencing the effects of severe droughts. Recent reports have highlighted the worsening food security situation on the continent, with Africa being the worst-hit region. The number of undernourished people has increased by 21%, making Africa the most affected continent. Chinoko emphasizes the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address these critical food security issues. Agricultural biotechnology has been identified as a key solution to improve productivity in the agriculture sector. However, Chinoko points out that the potential of agricultural biotechnology has been largely untapped due to neglect in policy, investment, training, and information dissemination. Despite being a proven solution in other regions, agricultural biotechnology is still undervalued in Africa. Chinoko calls on governments and stakeholders to invest more in agricultural biotechnology to effectively address food security challenges. To increase the adoption of agricultural biotechnology in the region, Chinoko stresses the importance of providing accurate information to dispel negative perceptions and fears associated with biotechnology. By engaging scientists, policymakers, and farmers in discussions about the benefits and advancements in agricultural biotechnology, stakeholders can make informed decisions. Chinoko highlights the success stories from countries like South Africa, where GM crops have improved farmer incomes and reduced chemical usage. Bridging the information gap and promoting evidence-based discussions are key strategies to drive the conversation around agricultural biotechnology. Additionally, Chinoko emphasizes the need for governments to establish regulatory frameworks to ensure the safe processing and adoption of agricultural biotechnologies. By implementing safety regulations, countries can create a conducive environment for the advancement of agricultural biotechnology and enhance food security prospects in Africa.