Keeping food and agricultural systems alive
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COVID-19 will have a negative impact on food systems and will worsen the sub-Saharan negative trajectory towards the achievement of SDGs 1 and 2. COVID-19 will cause economic slowdowns or even recessions in many African countries, and this will exacerbate existing food insecurity and malnutrition. COVID-19 and its immediate control measures limit people’s ability to access a healthy diet in different ways, including through reduced income, increased job insecurity, and reduced availability of diverse foods. In addition, malnutrition increases vulnerability to diseases. The food and agricultural sector will experience impacts through illness-related labor shortages, transport, logistics and processing interruptions, quarantine measures limiting access to markets, and supply chain disruptions in addition to increased food loss and waste. As in any policy option, the principle of do no harm should be the overarching consideration.
In Africa, the impact of COVID-19 will be unique and likely worse given the economic situation of the continent, the poorly developed health systems, and lack of economic bailout options for many countries.
Currently, many countries have imposed total or partial lockdowns, limiting the movement of people and shutting down businesses that are non-essential. Most, if not all, African countries have prioritized food supply chains as a key sector to go on uninterrupted. Financial services, including social protection schemes, have the green light to operate as well; and internet and mobile money banking systems are in place.