The Impact of Good Governance on Food Security in sub-Saharan African Countries

Good governance is essential for both economic development and food security, which hinges on the availability, affordability, and safety of food which are vital for people’s livelihoods. When governance falters, food systems ranging from production to storage, processing, distribution and even consumption tend to be disrupted. This study analysed how various governance factors, assessed through indicators like voice and accountability, political stability, absence of violence and terrorism, control of corruption, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, and rule of law, affect food security in sub-Saharan Africa. Cross-country panel data sourced secondarily from 28 countries and a System Dynamic Panel Data Estimation Technique were used for the study. The result of the descriptive statistics revealed that food security achieved the highest mean value among the analysed variables. Additionally, a pairwise correlation matrix indicated significant positive relationships between food security and factors such as voice and accountability, political stability, control of corruption, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, and rule of law in sub-Saharan Africa. Results of the regression analysis indicated that government effectiveness, political stability, absence of violence and terrorism, regulatory quality, and adherence to the rule of law positively correlated with food security, aligning with anticipated hypotheses. However, indicators like voice, accountability, and control of corruption had negative impacts. The significant link between government effectiveness and past levels of food security highlights the importance of robust governance systems, particularly within institutions responsible for food supply. Enhancing governance frameworks, especially those involving agencies tasked with making food available and affordable, is essential. Addressing the impacts of climate change on these systems is also crucial. Empowering citizens and involving them in the design and implementation of food production initiatives is key. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and openness across all institutions involved in food security, while tackling corruption in the food supply chain, must be prioritised. Sustained peace-building efforts and support for conflict-affected nations are vital for regional stability and improved food security. Key words: food, food security, governance, panel data, system dynamic analysis, sub-Saharan Africa