FOOD PRICES AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: PATTERNS, PRESSURES, AND POLICY RESPONSES

Despite the global success of the Green Revolution in enhancing agricultural productivity, Africa continues to face significant challenges in this regard, particularly evident in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), with South Africa being a notable exception. The persistent low productivity in African agriculture exacerbates food insecurity, resulting in adverse outcomes for farm families including low returns on investments, inadequate livelihoods characterized by low income and poor nutrition, heightened vulnerability to risks, and diminished life expectancy. This situation also prompts detrimental coping strategies, contributing to environmental degradation and the depletion of natural resources. The correlation between agricultural productivity, natural resources management, and food security underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions in SSA to address these interconnected challenges.