In the heart of the Horn of Africa, Somalia is grappling with a silent crisis that threatens not only its environment but also the very food that sustains its people. A recent study published in Discover Sustainability, the English translation for the journal name, has shed light on the intricate relationship between environmental degradation and food security in this war-torn nation. The research, led by Bile Abdisalan Nor of the Faculty of Management Science at SIMAD University, delves into the complex dynamics that are pushing Somalia’s agricultural systems to the brink.
The study, which spans three decades of data from 1990 to 2019, reveals a stark reality: environmental degradation, driven by soil erosion, deforestation, and overgrazing, is significantly hampering Somalia’s food security. “The empirical results show significant negative impacts of environmental degradation and gross domestic product (GDP) on food security, persisting in the short and long terms,” Nor states, highlighting the urgent need for intervention. This degradation diminishes agricultural productivity, exacerbating food insecurity among a population already grappling with instability and conflict.
One of the most compelling findings is the role of agricultural land expansion. While it initially seems beneficial, the study found that in the short term, it negatively affects food security. However, in the long term, it emerges as a positive contributor. “Agricultural land expansion exhibits a negative effect in the short term, but it emerges as a positive contributor to food security in the long term, highlighting its pivotal role in bolstering production capacity,” Nor explains. This duality underscores the need for a nuanced approach to land management, one that balances immediate needs with long-term sustainability.
The study also examined the impact of population growth and GDP on food security. Surprisingly, population growth was found to have an insignificant effect, suggesting that the primary drivers of food insecurity are environmental rather than demographic. GDP, however, showed a significant negative impact, indicating that economic factors also play a crucial role in determining food security.
The implications of this research are far-reaching, particularly for the energy sector. As Somalia continues to develop, the demand for energy will inevitably rise. However, the environmental degradation highlighted in this study poses a significant challenge. Sustainable land management practices, such as reforestation, soil conservation, and watershed management, are not just environmental imperatives but also economic necessities. These practices are critical for mitigating environmental degradation, preserving natural resources, and enhancing the resilience of agricultural systems to climate change.
The study suggests policy reform to prioritise initiatives for sustainable land management. This could mean a shift in how energy projects are planned and executed, ensuring that they align with environmental sustainability goals. For instance, renewable energy projects could be integrated with reforestation efforts, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both the environment and the energy sector.
As Somalia looks to the future, the findings of this study serve as a clarion call for action. The path to food security is fraught with challenges, but with the right policies and practices, it is achievable. The research published in Discover Sustainability provides a roadmap for policymakers, energy sector stakeholders, and environmentalists alike, urging them to work together towards a sustainable future for Somalia. The stakes are high, but the potential for positive change is even higher.
