Uniting for Change: Multi-Stakeholder Forum Convenes to Tackle Soaring Food Prices and Food Security in Africa

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By Ify Onyekwere

The relentless surge in food prices across African countries has led to widespread hunger and poverty, prompting urgent actions from authorities and policymakers to address the crisis. In a collaborative effort to find solutions and protect consumers, Consumer International UK, in partnership with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Council (FCCPC) of Nigeria, recently organized a Multi-Stakeholder Forum Workshop at Providence Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos.

During the event, attendees discussed food price hikes, sought ways to advance consumer protection, and identified reasons behind the widening gap between food supply and demand. The Executive Vice Chairman of the FCCPC, Mr Babatunde Irukera, emphasized the Council’s deep concern about the soaring food prices in Nigeria, leading them to take decisive measures to combat the crisis.

Addressing the participants, Mr Babatunde underscored the Council’s commitment to regulating big companies, the formal and crucial informal sectors. He pointed out that the informal sector constitutes a substantial portion of Nigeria’s economy, making it imperative to develop strategies to ensure fairness and stability in this segment.

The importance of the Multi-Stakeholder Forum was further emphasized by the recent declaration of a State of Emergency on Food Security by the Federal Government of Nigeria. This move underscores the severity of the situation and the need for immediate action to alleviate the suffering of millions of vulnerable Nigerians.

Mr Charlie Worthington, the Lead Food System of Consumer International UK, conveyed a poignant message to the Forum, highlighting the paradox of rising food prices in Africa despite global food price decreases since March 2022. He lamented that more than 25 million Nigerians are at high risk of food insecurity while food producers struggle to benefit from the increased consumer prices.

In identifying the root of the problem, Mr Charlie pointed to the lack of competition in the marketplace, with only a few actors profiting. At the same time, the majority faces the burden of unfair food prices. He stressed the urgent need for Nigeria to establish a robust and well-resourced competition authority to prevent anti-competitive practices. Additionally, more substantial data and evidence are required, alongside a more excellent voice for critical stakeholders, especially consumers and producers, to ensure a fair and equitable food system.

The Multi-Stakeholder Forum witnessed active participation from diverse sectors, including Food Research Institutions, Federal Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Civil Society, and the Media. This wide-ranging engagement underscores the collective effort required to tackle Africa’s multifaceted challenges of rising food prices.

In addition to Nigeria, many other African countries face similar food crises, with vulnerable populations grappling with the consequences of unaffordable food. Governments and policymakers across the continent must collaborate to devise comprehensive strategies that promote food security, ensure fair pricing mechanisms, and protect the interests of consumers and producers alike.

The stakeholders noted that African nations must invest in developing a sustainable agricultural sector that can meet domestic food demand while contributing to international trade. Implementing innovative farming techniques, supporting small-scale farmers, and enhancing market access for farm products can bolster food production and alleviate food scarcity.

The meeting had a rap that fostering regional and international cooperation is vital to address food crises effectively. Collaborative efforts can facilitate sharing of knowledge, resources, and best practices to bolster food security and strengthen the continent’s resilience against external shocks.

The Forum Workshop is a critical step towards finding solutions to Africa’s escalating food prices and food insecurity. By fostering collaboration between stakeholders, Nigeria and other African nations can work together to build resilient food systems, promote consumer welfare, and ensure fair pricing mechanisms that benefit both producers and consumers alike. This collective effort will be crucial in achieving sustainable development and fostering a brighter future for Africa.

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