The Decimation of Organic Farming in Africa: A Threat to Human Health

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to conceptually analyse and demonstrate how the decimation of organic farming in Africa is a threat to human life. It argues that the decimation of organic farming has negative repercussions on human health. Organic farming in Africa has been an issue of contention in governments, businesses and society at large. This paper examines the factors behind the reduction in organic farming in Africa, including issues such as soil degradation, Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) foods, political and economic pressures and the growth of single crop cultivation. Furthermore, the paper underscores the potential consequences of this trend on human health, nutrition and the environment. This problem is of great concern, as the decline in organic agriculture also impacts human well-being. This leads to insufficient nutrients in people's diets and a higher consumption of GMO foods. As a result, it is not surprising that there is a reduction in life expectancy in Africa due to inadequate consumption of organic products. For centuries, organic farming has been significant in Africa as a sustainable method of food production, contributing positively to the well-being of the community. However, the decline in organic agriculture in Africa, primarily driven by the expansion of industrial agriculture, poses an increasingly serious risk to human health and existence. The decline in organic farming in Africa not only erodes the traditional values and customs of the continent, but also imperils the survival of rural and urban societies. Consequently, the issue of organic agriculture in Africa requires immediate attention from policymakers, researchers, and the general populace. This is a conceptual paper that relies on a literature-based approach to conceptually demonstrate the decimation of organic agriculture in Africa that ultimately threatens human health and reduces the life expectancy of African people. Therefore, this paper recommends the resuscitation of organic farming through livelihood practices such as small-scale farming in rural areas. Keywords: Africa; Human Health, Life expectancy, Modified Food, Organic Farming.