Description
The African Union (AU) declared 2022 as the "Year of Nutrition" to address persistent food insecurity and malnutrition in Africa. Despite progress, challenges remain due to policy failures, conflict, climate issues, and global economic imbalances. In 2021, 322 million Africans faced severe food insecurity, with sub-Saharan Africa being the most affected. To tackle these issues, the AU and regional economic communities (RECs) prioritize food security and agriculture. Key frameworks like Agenda 2063 aim for a continent with stable, nutritious food sources. The AU and RECs have developed various instruments to support their Member States in these efforts. FAO commissioned CEFROHT to study the governance of the AU and RECs in sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on food and agriculture policies, implementation challenges, and collaboration opportunities. CEFROHT analyzed the activities of key organizations, including EAC, IGAD, SADC, CEMAC, CEN–SAD, CILSS, ECOWAS, ECCAS, and COMESA. The report highlights their governance structures, normative frameworks, and potential areas for collaboration with FAO.