Food systems have long been a global development sector, serving as a cornerstone for both food security and livelihoods for the majority of people in low- and middle-income countries. But the recent confluence of climate change, COVID-19, and the conflict in Ukraine have brought forth new challenges requiring a robust response from those working to support global food systems.
For instance, the halt of grains and fertilizers previously supplied to many African countries by Ukraine, coupled with the diversion of resources and funding for food initiatives, has resulted in a "double jeopardy," Ruth Oniang'o, a nutritionist, academic, and former member of the Kenyan Parliament, told Devex.
Globally, as of 2022, approximately 258 million people across 58 countries were experiencing acute food insecurity, according to the United Nations.
About the author
Katrina J. Lane
Katrina Lane is an Editorial Strategist and Reporter at Devex. She writes on ecologies and social inclusion, and also supports the creation of partnership content at Devex. She holds a degree in Psychology from Warwick University, offering a unique perspective on the cognitive frameworks and social factors that influence responses to global issues.
