BATTLING HUNGER IN THE FACE OF DROUGHT

EXAMINING THE IMPACT ON AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SUPPLY IN ZAMBIA AND THE REGION

By BERNADETTE DEKA-ZULU (PhD Researcher-Public Enterprise)

IN the pursuit of a sustainable and equitable world, the United Nations established the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address pressing global challenges. 

Among these goals, SDG 2 – “Zero Hunger,” stands as a critical commitment to eradicate hunger, improve nutrition, and ensure food security for all. 

However, achieving this noble objective remains an arduous task, particularly in regions like Africa, where adverse climate conditions, such as drought, pose formidable obstacles to agricultural productivity and food supply.

As a research fellow, I delve into the intricate web of challenges faced by Zambia, a nation emblematic of the African continent, and the broader southern region of Africa, in their battle against hunger amid drought-induced adversity. 

This article endeavours to illuminate the complex interplay between drought, agriculture, and food supply, while also highlighting the proactive measures required to uphold SDG 2 and ensure a hunger-free future for Africa.

The devastating impact of drought on agriculture

Drought, a recurrent climatic phenomenon, casts its long shadow over African nations, robbing fertile lands of their productivity and compromising agricultural livelihoods. 

Zambia, often hailed as the breadbasket of Africa, is no stranger to the formidable impact of drought on its agricultural sector. 

A lack of sufficient rainfall disrupts planting and harvesting cycles, leading to diminished crop yields and, in severe cases, crop failures.

In Zimbabwe, a significant portion of the population relies on rain-fed agriculture for sustenance and livelihoods. Prolonged droughts in Zimbabwe disrupt planting seasons, exacerbating food shortages and malnutrition. 

The nation’s economic challenges further compound the situation, impeding access to resources needed for sustainable agriculture.

Similarly, in Malawi, recurrent food crises are experienced due to drought. The reliance on rain-fed agriculture makes the country highly vulnerable to climate fluctuations. 

Innovative approaches are needed to bolster food security and break the cycle of hunger.

Mozambique, with its long coastline, is particularly susceptible to extreme weather events like cyclones, which can devastate agricultural lands and coastal communities. 

Integrated climate-resilient strategies are essential to safeguard food production and protect vulnerable populations in Mozambique.

Threats to food supply chain

Drought-induced challenges extend beyond agricultural lands, permeating the entire food supply chain in the southern region of Africa. In Zambia and other African countries, where smallholder farmers play a crucial role in food production, the ripple effects of drought reverberate through distribution networks. 

Diminished agricultural output leads to limited surpluses for trade and distribution, triggering price fluctuations and food scarcity across borders.

Moreover, transportation and storage of agricultural produce face logistical hurdles due to disrupted infrastructure and limited financial resources. 

This exacerbates post-harvest losses, impacting food accessibility and affordability for vulnerable populations. 

As a result, the cycle of hunger perpetuates, thwarting progress towards SDG 2 and hampering broader sustainable development efforts.

Africa’s collective response

Recognising the urgency of the situation, African nations, including Zambia, have forged alliances and partnerships to address the challenges posed by drought and hunger. Collaborative initiatives focus on promoting climate-smart agriculture, integrating sustainable irrigation systems, and developing drought-resistant crop varieties.

 Investments in meteorological technology and early warning systems have been prioritised to enhance preparedness and response to climatic extremes.

Furthermore, the integration of digital platforms and e-agriculture solutions empowers farmers with vital information on weather patterns, market trends, and agronomic practices. 

These innovations, coupled with targeted social safety nets, support resilient livelihoods, and enhance food security for vulnerable communities.

Collaborative efforts and regional resilience

Recogniing the urgency of the situation, Southern African nations have come together to forge alliances and partnerships to address the challenges posed by drought and hunger. 

Collaborative initiatives, such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Regional Agricultural Policy, focus on promoting climate-smart agriculture, enhancing cross-border trade, and strengthening food reserves to foster regional resilience.

Empowering women in agriculture

Women play a crucial role in agricultural activities in the southern region of Africa. Empowering women with access to resources, education, and market opportunities is vital for increasing food production and improving food security. Gender-inclusive policies and programmes can amplify the region’s progress towards SDG 2.

Harnessing technology for climate adaptation

In the face of climate uncertainties, digital technologies offer invaluable tools for climate adaptation in the southern region of Africa. Weather forecasting systems, precision agriculture, and mobile-based market information services empower farmers to make informed decisions, optimising agricultural productivity despite environmental challenges.

Empowering communities through education and innovation

While governments and international organisations play a crucial role in spearheading hunger alleviation efforts, it is equally imperative to empower local communities.

Education and training programmes that promote sustainable farming practices, water conservation, and diversification of income sources prove instrumental in building adaptive capacities.

Moreover, fostering innovation through research and development initiatives unlocks the potential of indigenous knowledge and modern technology, contributing to enhanced agricultural productivity and food security.

Conclusion

SDG 2, the aspiration for a hunger-free world, demands collective action and unwavering commitment, particularly in regions like the southern part of Africa, where drought casts a long shadow over agricultural productivity and food supply. 

By fostering regional collaborations, empowering women in agriculture, and harnessing technology for climate adaptation, the southern African nations can rise above the challenges posed by drought and pave the way for a more food-secure future.

As researchers, policymakers, and global citizens, let us rally behind the vision of a hunger-free world, supporting the southern region of Africa’s efforts to achieve SDG 2 and foster a brighter, sustainable future for all. 

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that no one goes hungry in the face of climate adversity.

(bernadettedekazulu@gmail.com)