Commending the Pan-African Parliament's Collaboration with FAO on the Model Law for Food and Nutrition Security in Africa

The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing the African continent, particularly in the realm of food and nutrition security. The recent collaboration between PAP and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) to develop a Model Law on Food and Nutrition Security in Africa stands as a testament to this dedication. This pioneering initiative, officially launched during the Third Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament in Midrand, South Africa, represents a significant milestone in the continent's journey toward ensuring that all African citizens have access to adequate and nutritious food.

A Timely Intervention in Africa's Food Security Crisis

In his keynote address at the 11th Conference of Speakers of Africa’s Regional and National Parliaments on September 1, 2022 hosted by PAP in the seat of the Parliament in Midrand, South Africa, PAP President H. E. Hon. Chief Fortune Charumbira highlighted a disturbing reality: 21% of Africans suffered from food insecurity and hunger in 2020. This alarming statistic is particularly perplexing given that Africa possesses 60% of the world's arable land. Charumbira also lamented the continent's dependence on grain imports from conflict-ridden Ukraine, stressing the urgent need for Africa to become self-sufficient in food production. The adoption and launch of the Model Law on Food and Nutrition Security could not, therefore, have come at a more critical time.

A Critical Partnership for Sustainable Development

The partnership between PAP and FAO exemplifies what can be achieved when African institutions collaborate with international organizations. By leveraging FAO’s extensive expertise in food security and nutrition, PAP has crafted a legislative framework that is both comprehensive and tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities present in Africa. This collaboration is not merely about creating laws; it is about fostering an environment where food and nutrition security can be sustainably achieved across the continent.

Comprehensive Framework Addressing Food Security

The Model Law on Food and Nutrition Security, adopted by the PAP Plenary on November 11, 2022, provides a thorough legal framework that addresses key aspects of food security, including the availability, accessibility, stability, and utilization of food. It enshrines the right to adequate food as a fundamental human right, ensuring that all individuals have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs. The law also delineates the roles and responsibilities of state and non-state actors in respecting, protecting, and fulfilling this right.

Moreover, the law incorporates guiding principles such as participation, accountability, non-discrimination, and gender equality, ensuring that all interventions related to food and nutrition security are inclusive and equitable. It also emphasizes the importance of good governance, sustainability, and the rule of law in achieving food security goals.

Empowering AU Member States

One of the most commendable aspects of this initiative is its focus on empowering AU Member States. The Model Law serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for countries developing or strengthening their national legislation on food and nutrition security. By providing a detailed framework, the law enables Member States to craft policies tailored to their specific needs while ensuring alignment with continental and global goals, such as the Malabo Declaration, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the African Union's Agenda 2063.

The Model Law will also facilitate the harmonization of food and nutrition security laws across the continent, promoting cross-border trade in food and ensuring that all Africans benefit from a cohesive and well-regulated food system. This harmonization is particularly crucial given the diverse legal traditions and varying levels of development among African states.

Addressing Structural Challenges and Promoting Sustainable Development

In adopting this Model Law, PAP and its partners have demonstrated a profound understanding of the structural challenges that impede food security in Africa. The law not only addresses immediate concerns such as malnutrition and food safety but also promotes the creation of an enabling environment for sustainable agricultural production, responsible management of natural resources, and the reduction of food loss and waste.

Furthermore, the law supports initiatives that improve access to productive resources, agricultural inputs, and services, particularly for small-scale and subsistence farmers. This focus on equitable access is crucial for achieving food and nutrition security in a continent where agriculture remains the backbone of many economies.

Looking Ahead: The Path to Implementation

The successful launch of the Model Law is just the beginning. The true measure of its impact will be seen in its implementation across the continent. PAP, in collaboration with FAO and other stakeholders, must now focus on supporting Member States in adapting and adopting the provisions of the Model Law into their national legal frameworks. This will require continued advocacy, capacity building, and the establishment of robust accountability mechanisms to ensure that the law translates into tangible benefits for the people of Africa.

Conclusion

The launch of the Model Law on Food and Nutrition Security marks a significant achievement for the Pan-African Parliament and its collaborators. By providing a robust legal framework that AU Member States can adopt and adapt, PAP and FAO have laid the groundwork for a future where food security is not just a goal but a reality for all Africans. This initiative demonstrates the potential of collaborative efforts in addressing complex continental challenges and is a shining example of how African institutions can lead the way in ensuring a prosperous and food-secure future for the continent.