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The Making And Unmaking Of Global Food Connections In West Africa: An Exposé of RGS-IBG Series

Harold Powell

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Published in Assembling Export Markets: The Making And Unmaking Of Global Food Connections In West Africa (RGS IBG Series)

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Food has always played a pivotal role in shaping societies and connecting diverse cultures around the world. In West Africa, the making and unmaking of global food connections have been a subject of great interest and research. The Royal Geographical Society-Institute of British Geographers (RGS-IBG) Series has been at the forefront of shedding light on this complex and fascinating topic.

The Significance of Global Food Connections

In an increasingly interconnected world, the study of global food connections has become crucial. It allows us to understand the complex dynamics between local food production, international trade, cultural exchange, and economic development. West Africa, with its rich agricultural heritage and historical trading networks, provides a fascinating context to examine these connections.

The RGS-IBG Series on the making and unmaking of global food connections in West Africa aims to unravel the intricate web of relationships and processes involved in the production, distribution, and consumption of food in the region. By examining this topic, researchers hope to shed light on the socio-cultural, economic, and environmental implications of global food systems.

Assembling Export Markets: The Making and Unmaking of Global Food Connections in West Africa (RGS IBG Series)

Assembling Export Markets: The Making and Unmaking of Global Food Connections in West Africa (RGS-IBG Book Series)

by Howard Mark(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

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Language	:	English
File size	:	5006 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	247 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	342 pages
Item Weight	:	1.46 pounds
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.81 x 9 inches

The Making of Global Food Connections in West Africa

The making of global food connections in West Africa can be traced back centuries. Historical trade routes, such as the Trans-Saharan trade, facilitated the exchange of goods, including food, across vast distances. West African countries, such as Ghana and Nigeria, were key players in these trading networks, exporting valuable products like gold, ivory, and spices.

With the arrival of European colonizers in the region, new global food connections were established. Cash crops like cocoa, palm oil, and rubber became major exports, shaping the economies of West African nations. This period also witnessed the of new foods, such as cassava and maize, which became integral parts of local diets.

The expansion of global food connections in West Africa continued into the 20th century with the emergence of multinational corporations dominating the global agricultural market. Large-scale industrial agriculture replaced traditional farming methods, transforming landscapes and altering food production patterns. This era witnessed the rise of cash-crop monocultures, creating environmental challenges and exacerbating socioeconomic disparities.

The Unmaking of Global Food Connections in West Africa

Despite the advantages brought by global food connections, there are also negative consequences. The unmaking of these connections in West Africa has been fueled by a variety of factors, including trade imbalances, political instability, and climate change.

Trade imbalances have created situations where West African countries export significant amounts of their agricultural produce, while relying heavily on imported food. This vulnerability is exposed during times of global economic crises or disruptions in trade routes. Local food production suffers, leading to food insecurity and a heavy dependency on foreign aid.

Political instability, both internal and external, has also contributed to the unmaking of global food connections in West Africa. Wars and conflicts disrupt agricultural activities, displace farmers, and hinder trade. This leads to food shortages and exacerbates the region's food insecurity challenges.

Furthermore, climate change poses a significant threat to global food connections in West Africa. Erratic weather patterns, including droughts and floods, have a devastating impact on local food production. This, coupled with limited access to technology and infrastructure, hampers the region's ability to adapt and mitigate climate-related risks.

The Role of RGS-IBG Series in Understanding Global Food Connections

The RGS-IBG Series has played a crucial role in understanding the making and unmaking of global food connections in West Africa. Through interdisciplinary research and collaborative efforts, scholars have been able to shed light on the complex interplay between global food systems and local contexts.

By studying these connections, researchers hope to identify strategies for creating more equitable and sustainable food systems in West Africa. This includes empowering local farmers, promoting agroecology, encouraging fair trade practices, and strengthening regional cooperation.

The making and unmaking of global food connections in West Africa is a multifaceted issue with profound implications for the region's socio-economic development and environmental sustainability. The RGS-IBG Series has provided valuable insights into this complex topic, highlighting the need for more inclusive and environmentally sustainable food systems.

Through continued research and collaboration, it is hoped that new solutions and strategies can be developed to address the challenges facing West Africa's food connections. This will require collective efforts from governments, organizations, farmers, and consumers to foster a more equitable, resilient, and interconnected food network.