The impact of structural adjustment programmes on the food situation in two selected subregions with emphasis on the efficiency of the marketing of food commodities: case study of Eastern and Southern Africa subregions

Abstract

This report examines the impact of Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs) on the food situation in Eastern and Southern Africa, focusing on agricultural marketing efficiency. It highlights the historical context of agricultural crises in Africa, attributing poor performance to both exogenous factors like civil wars and endogenous issues such as government policy biases. The study outlines the objectives and methodology, emphasizing a comparative analysis of agricultural production and marketing policies before and after SAP implementation. Key findings indicate a significant decline in food production and a shift from net exporter to net importer status in the region. The report concludes with recommendations for rationalizing SAPs, improving agricultural marketing policies, and enhancing the role of the private sector to ensure food security.