ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND FOOD SECURITY

 Introduction

This article explains the importance of including elements aimed at achieving national and household food security in development plans. The article explains that participatory and equitable development processes is what can lead to sustainable development which in turn can result in attainment of food security at national and house hold level.

Indicators of Economic Development

Economic development occurs when the benefits of economic growth result in poverty eradication so that almost the entire population of the country can be above the poverty datum line. When poverty is eradicated incomes and the standard of living for the majority of the population also increase to levels where they are able to meet basic human material needs such as access to food, shelter, clothing, clean water, health and sanitation.

Economic Development and Food Security

Impact of Economic Development on Food Security

Food insecurity and more generally poverty are developmental concerns. Addressing both national and household food security problems is critical in planning for national economic growth and development. Attainment of sustainable and sufficient economic development leads to eradication of poverty. When poverty is eradicated, then the capacity of households is increased to have sufficient resources that will enable them to withstand shocks that lead to food insecurity.

Food insecure people tend not to actively participate in developmental issues mainly because their assets and energy are focused more on meeting food needs, rather than longer term investments. Addressing both national and household food security problems are therefore essential elements in planning for national economic growth and development. The increase in incomes and valuable resources at national and household levels is a prerequisite to poverty eradication and attainment of food security.

The challenge is for Government to lead and collaborate with other actors in ensuring that sufficient economic growth and equitable development do occur. The other challenge is to put in place measures and incentives that will ensure that all individuals in the country participate in the development process and are impacted positively by development. When all individuals are impacted positively by development then it will be possible to ensure that all people have access to food of the right quantity and quality at all times to enable them live an active healthy life.