Why We Must Redesign Our Food Production Systems

Jean-Luc Galabert

Humanity in general and Africa , in particular , are challenged to redesign our food production system .

The last COP in Glasgow confirmed the reluctance of rich countries to assume their historical responsibility for the degradation of the planet ’ s climate and to honor their commitment to finance the adaptation of the most vulnerable countries to the inevitable consequences of climate change . Current reports show in particular that the countries of the tropical and subtropical zones with low greenhouse gas emissions will be and have begun to be the most impacted by the consequences of global warming . Agriculture being dependent on climatic conditions , this vital economic sector will be the first victim of climate degradation and hazards . Humanity in general and Africa , in particular , are therefore challenged to redesign our food production system and to promote productive , resilient , non-destructive and even regenerative agrosystems for agricultural land and ecosystems . The good news is : this is an achievable objective .

Agriculture is at the core of 21st-century problems .

The map below shows that a significant decline in agricultural yields is expected to affect most , if not all , tropical and subtropical areas .

Potential evolution of agricultural productivity by 2080 .