Food security in North Africa: Challenges and policy responses

Abstract

North Africa faces significant food security challenges due to macroeconomic volatility, COVID-19, climate change, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. These interconnected crises have exacerbated food insecurity, malnutrition, and social instability. In 2023, 33.8% of the subregion’s population experienced moderate or severe food insecurity, with 7.8% undernourished. Key challenges include unsustainable agriculture, declining arable land, food price volatility, and climate vulnerability. Countries have responded with tax reductions, subsidies, cash transfers, and AI-driven agricultural policies (e.g., Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia). However, long-term solutions require a multidisciplinary approach: boosting domestic production, promoting sustainable farming, enhancing social protection, and fostering regional cooperation. A shift from short-term crisis management to long-term resilience-building is critical, prioritizing macroeconomic stability, adaptive technologies, and inclusive policies targeting vulnerable groups.