Using Figure 8 and your own knowledge, evaluate strategies used to ensure food security - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 2

To evaluate strategies for ensuring food security in Ghana, we must consider both the G8 New Alliance initiative detailed in Figure 8 and additional strategic approaches.

G8 New Alliance Initiative

The G8 New Alliance focuses on five staple crops, which is a critical step toward diversifying agricultural output. The initiative aims to enhance investment in high-yield hybrid seeds, which could potentially increase food production significantly. By concentrating on crops like cowpea, maize, cassava, rice, and yam, there’s an effort to reduce dependency on a limited number of crops that are already vulnerable to pests and climate change.

However, the lack of awareness among farmers about this initiative poses significant challenges. For a strategy to be successful, grassroots involvement and understanding are crucial. Without local knowledge and buy-in, such initiatives may fail to yield the expected benefits. The disconnect between policymakers and farmers could result in the misallocation of resources.

Additional Strategies to Ensure Food Security

A multifaceted approach is essential for improving food security:

1. Investment in Agricultural Education: Enhancing education for farmers about G8 initiatives and agricultural techniques could empower them to take advantage of new resources.

2. Use of Technology: Employing biotechnology to improve crop yields can mitigate food insecurity. This could include developing drought-resistant varieties or genetically modified crops to withstand pests.

3. Sustainable Practices: Implementing sustainable farming practices can increase soil health and yield over the long term. This includes crop rotation, intercropping, and organic farming techniques.

4. Local Engagement: Strategies should involve local communities to ensure that initiatives are suited to their needs. This would improve the relevance and acceptance of foreign investments and agricultural programs.

5. Reduction of Food Waste: Initiatives aimed at improving food storage and transportation can reduce total waste and improve availability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the G8 New Alliance presents a structured approach to improving food security in Ghana, there should also be an emphasis on local education, sustainable practices, and reducing waste to create a comprehensive strategy that addresses both immediate and long-term food security challenges.