Horn of Africa Drought, Food Crisis: Agricultural Trade Policies Questioned

Almost twelve million people are in need of food aid because of drought and conflict in the Horn of Africa region, according to many reports. As the crisis grows, some experts are questioning the role of agricultural trade and investment policies in the region. A joint statement from intergovernmental agencies and a humanitarian aid group has said that the “slow-onset” humanitarian crisis leaves millions of women, men, and children vulnerable to “devastating hunger and malnutrition.” According to economists, there has been a neglect of agriculture and, importantly, of sustainable agricultural practices. Luck of investment in smallholder agriculture, livestock disease and unsustainable grazing, and food price inflation have played roles in contributing to the current crisis. Read more here.
International Centre for Trade and Sustainable Development