Food insecurity and outcomes during COVID-19 pandemic in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)

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Dr. Phemelo Tamasiga
December 6, 2022
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This paper examines the impact of COVID-19 on food security indicators (accessibility, availability, utilization, stability) in nine sub-Saharan African countries. Using OLS regression, the study finds that rising COVID-19 levels negatively affect all four indicators, disrupting food supply chains. It highlights the need to address diet, nutrition, affordability, and supply chain disruptions, recommending investments in agricultural infrastructure, agro-processing, and transport. Additionally, income shocks from lockdowns exacerbated food insecurity, underscoring the need for affordable, sustainable social protection systems, especially for the informal sector.
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