In a nation where millions grapple with poverty and escalating food prices, it seems paradoxical that food waste remains a significant issue. Yet, Nigeria faces a dual challenge: widespread hunger coexisting with substantial food wastage.
Staggering Food Waste Statistics
According to the United Nations Environment Program’s 2021 Food Waste Index Report, Nigeria discards approximately 37.9 million tonnes of food annually, equating to about 189 kilograms per person each year. ( Ripples Nigeria ). This figure positions Nigeria among the highest in Africa concerning per capita food wastage.
Escalating Food Prices and Inflation
The National Bureau of Statistics reported that Nigeria’s inflation rate rose to 33.88% in
October 2024, up from 32.7% in September, primarily driven by surging food prices ( The Cable ). Staple foods such as rice, maize, and bread have seen significant price increases, exacerbating the cost-of-living crisis.
The Paradox of Hunger Amidst Waste
Despite the high levels of food waste, Nigeria is experiencing one of its most severe hunger
crises. Projections indicate that over 33 million people will face food insecurity by next year,
a significant increase from the 24.8 million expected by the end of this year ( Reuters ). This
juxtaposition highlights a critical inefficiency in the nation’s food distribution and consumption
patterns.
Contributing Factors to Food Waste
Several factors contribute to Nigeria’s food waste dilemma:
1. Post-Harvest Losses: Approximately 42% of fruits and vegetables are lost before reaching consumers, primarily due to inadequate storage and transportation infrastructure ( KashGain ).
2. Consumer Behavior: Cultural practices and a lack of awareness about food preservation lead to significant household food waste.
3. Supply Chain Inefficiencies: Poor logistics and market systems result in food spoilage during transit and at points of sale.
How Do we Address the Crisis?
To mitigate this paradoxical crisis, Nigeria must implement comprehensive strategies:
- Infrastructure Development: Investing in storage facilities and efficient transportation can reduce post-harvest losses.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating consumers on food preservation and the implications of waste can foster more responsible consumption habits.
- Policy Reforms: Implementing policies that encourage food donation and redistribute surplus food to those in need can alleviate hunger and reduce waste.
- Technological Innovations: Adopting technologies for better inventory management and supply chain tracking can enhance efficiency and minimize losses.
My Final Thought:
Nigeria stands at a critical juncture where addressing food waste is not just an environmental
or economic imperative but a moral one. By tackling the inefficiencies that lead to such paradoxical coexistence of hunger and waste, the nation can move towards a more sustainable and equitable food system.
Akinyemi Iledare is a Veterinarian/Public Health Consultant, Tech Enthusiast, Astute Marketer, Food Enthusiast. I am not a foodie, but I can help eating good food and seeing healthy people around me.
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