Utilizing science, technology, and innovation policy to drive food security: Cross-National insights based on PMG-ARDL approach

As the food crisis in West Africa continues to escalate, urgent action is needed to identify the factors driving food security in the region to prevent further exacerbation of an already unstable food supply. This paper examines the moderating effect of science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy on climate change, institutional quality, natural resource rents, and its impact on food security. Utilizing second-generation econometric techniques, the study employs the pooled mean group regression estimator and datasets spanning from 2003 to 2022 from West African nations. The results show a cross-sectional, heterogeneous panel with stable long-term co-integration and stable links among parameters. The findings reveal climate change as a detrimental factor to food security, but also highlight institutional quality and natural resource rents as beneficial drivers of food security. Again, STI significantly enhances the positive relationship between institutional quality and food security, while mitigating the negative impact of climate change, thereby promoting sustainable production methods. The study recommends the adoption and effective implementation of STI policy as it promotes food security through technological innovation, increased agricultural output, efficient institutions, and the sustainable use of natural resources. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of investing in STI to enhance the region’s food security.