Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
07 November 2023 | 16:15 CAT

Image: Farmer’s Weekly

Recent Global conflicts continue to send shockwaves throughout the world. Their impact has laid bare the critical need for developing African markets, such as South Africa (SA), to strengthen food production capabilities and agricultural supply chains. Prioritising the needs of millions of children at risk of starvation and malnutrition is paramount as a response to any global crisis.

Disruptions in the supply of essential goods, materials, and services have led to soaring food prices, exacerbating the challenges faced by South Africans already grappling with historical food insecurity and deeply rooted inequality.

According to the Global Report on Food Crises, 139 million people experienced acute food insecurity in 2021, a significant increase of approximately 40 million from the previous year. Armed conflict and security risks were primary factors, alongside economic shocks, which pushed 30 million people into crisis, and extreme weather events, affecting 23 million individuals.

In light of these circumstances, it is crucial for nations to work together to address these challenges, focusing on securing the basic needs of vulnerable populations and fortifying agricultural systems to ensure a stable food supply for all.

“We at Afrika Tikkun are on a mission to teach people how to grow food closer to the city so there’s less transport. And to feed themselves without necessarily going to the shops,” Afrika Tikkun Group CEO Alan Flemming.

Afrika Tikkun Foundation’s Agriprenuership Programme offers youth a head-start in agriculture and related skills to boost South Africa’s food production potential, make the country more food secure and create much-needed employment.

The Afrika Tikkun Foundation’s mantra is to ‘train and develop SA’s youth for permanent participation in the agricultural economy through the one-year Agripreneurship Programme’.

Listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.