Lagos, Nigeria – Despite enduring challenges, ten African nations have made significant progress in addressing food security, driven by a combination of strategic agricultural investments, support for smallholder farmers, and crop diversification. According to the 2024 Global Hunger Index, these countries have demonstrated that targeted policies can combat undernourishment even amid climate crises and socio-economic struggles.
AfricaHeadline Reports Team
editorial@africaheadline.com
Ethiopia has improved grain productivity by 25% over the past five years through its Agricultural Transformation Agenda. This initiative has provided 65% of smallholder farmers with access to improved seeds and subsidised fertilisers, strengthening the country’s food production base.
Ghana’s Planting for Food and Jobs programme has created 2.5 million jobs since 2020 and boosted maize and rice production by 40%. Enhanced storage infrastructure has also reduced post-harvest losses, ensuring greater food availability.
In Rwanda, the Crop Intensification Programme has tripled potato and maize production, significantly reducing malnutrition rates by 18% in 2024. The programme’s emphasis on efficiency and equitable food distribution has proven impactful.
Senegal invested $500 million in irrigation systems and hybrid seeds, achieving a 30% reduction in rice imports. The country’s focus on self-reliance has strengthened its agricultural resilience.
Zambia remains a leading maize producer in Southern Africa, with an annual surplus of 1.2 million tonnes. The Food Reserve Agency has stabilised domestic prices and bolstered regional exports, ensuring food security for neighbouring nations.
Kenya’s adoption of solar irrigation systems and drone technology has increased agricultural productivity by 35% in two years, benefiting over one million smallholder farmers and reducing production costs.
Malawi’s Agricultural Input Subsidy Programme has reached three million farmers, leading to a 20% annual increase in maize production. In 2023, the country exported 300,000 tonnes of maize, cementing its role as a regional supplier.
Uganda’s National Agricultural Advisory Services has improved market access for smallholder farmers, reducing food insecurity by 15% since 2020 and increasing rural incomes.
Tanzania’s focus on crop diversification and irrigation expansion has resulted in a 22% increase in agricultural output in 2024. Wheat, rice, and cassava have become key staples in the country’s fight against hunger.
In Ivory Coast, the introduction of resilient rice varieties has driven a 30% production increase over five years, reducing the national food deficit by 20%. Investments in irrigation have further bolstered food security.
Despite these advancements, over 278 million Africans remain undernourished in 2024, according to the UN. Armed conflicts, climate change, and limited infrastructure continue to hinder broader progress across the continent.
These success stories underscore the potential of targeted investments and well-planned policies to address food security challenges in Africa, offering hope for a more sustainable and resilient future.
