The Paradox of Abundance and Hunger in Sub-Saharan Africa: An Analysis of the Effects of Economic Integration on Food Accessibility

Abstract: This study aims to analyse the effects of economic integration on food accessibility. To do so, we draw on international trade theories, neoclassical income and price theory to hypothesise that greater economic integration improves food accessibility. To test this hypothesis, we adopt and adapt the empirical model of Candel and Biesbroek (2018), which we estimate using panel data from 2000 to 2018. Using the generalized least squares method, we find that economic integration has positive and significant effects on food accessibility, confirming our hypothesis. Given these results, governments should accelerate the integration process to ensure food accessibility. Keywords: Economic Integration, Food Accessibility, Paradox of Abundance and Hunger, Generalized Least Squares Method JEL Classification Number: C23, F15, Q18