Food security challenges: A comparative review of USA and African Policies

Deborah Aanuoluwa Soyombo 1, *, Eseoghene Kupa 2, Tochukwu Ignatius Ijomah 3 and Adekunle Stephen Toromade 4

1 Milky Express Nigeria Limited, Lagos, Nigeria.
2 HSE Director - Frozen Hill Farms | Lagos State, Nigeria.
3 Independent Researcher, Australia.
4 Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, UK.
 
Review
Open Access Research Journal of Biology and Pharmacy, 2024, 11(02), 001–010.
Article DOI: 10.53022/oarjbp.2024.11.2.0028
Publication history: 
Received on 31 May 2024; revised on 15 July 2024; accepted on 17 July 2024
 
Abstract: 
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the food security challenges faced by the United States (USA) and African nations, examining the distinct policy approaches implemented to address these critical issues. The analysis focuses on key factors influencing food security, such as agricultural practices, economic structures, and political considerations. The United States and African nations grapple with diverse challenges in ensuring food security for their populations. This study undertakes a comparative review of the policies adopted by these regions to tackle the multifaceted issues related to food production, distribution, and accessibility. In the USA, the emphasis lies on advanced agricultural technologies and industrial farming practices. The country's policies are geared towards maximizing efficiency, ensuring a stable food supply, and promoting exports. However, challenges arise from the environmental impact of intensive farming, unequal distribution of resources, and the vulnerability of large-scale monocultures. Contrastingly, African countries face unique hurdles stemming from a combination of socio-economic factors, including limited access to modern farming technologies, land tenure issues, and inadequate infrastructure. Additionally, political instability and climate change exacerbate the challenges, impacting food production and distribution systems. The comparative analysis sheds light on the importance of tailoring food security policies to the specific needs and contexts of each region. It explores the potential for knowledge exchange and collaboration between the USA and African nations to address global food crises collaboratively. Emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices, equitable resource distribution, and adaptive governance strategies emerge as key recommendations to fortify both regions against future food security challenges. This study contributes valuable insights to policymakers, researchers, and practitioners aiming to develop effective strategies for enhancing global food security in a rapidly changing world.
 
Keywords: 
Food Security; Agricultural Policies; USA; Africa; Comparative Analysis; Global Food Crisis; Economic Factors; Political Considerations; Sustainable Agriculture
 
Full text article in PDF: