The Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) has cited Senegal as an example in reducing hunger. According to AFSA, Senegal has successfully halved its hunger rate since 2006. This achievement is notable, as the country has made significant progress in improving food security. The AFSA report, titled "The Green Revolution Failed in Africa: Twenty Years of Data and What Works Instead," highlights Senegal's success. The report analyzes agricultural and food systems data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
The AFSA report compares Senegal's progress to that of 13 other African countries participating in the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA). In these countries, the number of undernourished people increased by 58% since 2006. Despite a 46% increase in cultivated areas, the yields of basic crops have slowed compared to the previous 12 years. The report's authors consider Senegal an example in the fight against hunger over the past 20 years. However, they emphasize that Senegal has not resolved all its food problems.
Senegal's agricultural production has shown significant growth in certain areas. The production of millet increased by 85% over the past 20 years, while sorghum production rose by 75%. The country has maintained agricultural diversity by adapting its crops to its agro-climatic conditions. This approach has contributed to Senegal's success in reducing hunger. The AFSA report highlights the importance of diversification and adaptation in achieving food security.
The AFSA report suggests that the recent "green revolution" does not guarantee food security. According to M. Diedhiou, the experience of Senegal shows that a different approach is needed. The report recommends reorienting agricultural policies towards more diversification, soil restoration, and conservation of seeds. It also advises strengthening public services responsible for agricultural extension, research, and support to farmers.
The AFSA emphasizes that agricultural policies should aim to establish varied and resilient food systems. These systems should strengthen food sovereignty and enable rural communities to produce efficiently, taking into account their regional agro-climatic conditions. The report's recommendations aim to improve food security and support sustainable agricultural practices.
The AFSA report is based on data from the FAO and analyzes the evolution of agricultural and food systems since the launch of the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa in 2006. The report provides a comprehensive assessment of the impact of agricultural policies on food security in Africa. It highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to achieving food security.
Senegal's success in reducing hunger is a notable achievement, but the country still faces challenges. The AFSA report emphasizes that Senegal has not solved all its food problems. However, the country's experience provides valuable lessons for other African countries seeking to improve food security. The report's recommendations offer a framework for policymakers to develop more effective agricultural policies.
Key points
- Senegal has successfully halved its hunger rate since 2006, according to the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA).
- The AFSA report recommends reorienting agricultural policies towards more diversification, soil restoration, and conservation of seeds.
- Senegal's agricultural production has shown significant growth in certain areas, including a 85% increase in millet production over the past 20 years.
