Africa must boost food output to maintain growth

New York, 15 May - (ANA) - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) says Africa needs to boost agricultural productivity if it is to sustain its economic boom. The report says African economies have registered "impressive growth rates". But it says sub-Saharan Africa cannot sustain its present economic resurgence unless it eliminates the hunger that affects nearly a quarter of its people. The situation affects children in particular, with 40% of African children aged under five malnourished. UNDP Administrator Helen Clark said at the launch of the report in Kenya: "Impressive GDP [gross domestic product] growth rates in Africa have not translated into the elimination of hunger and malnutrition. Inclusive growth and people-centred approaches to food security are needed." The report says that simply focusing on agriculture will not be enough to reverse the situation. It calls for new approaches covering multiple sectors, from rural infrastructure to health services, and new forms of social protection and empowering local communities. (ANA)

FA/ANA/15 May 2012-------