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Demographic Projections, the Environment and Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa

Author

Listed:
  • Tukufu Zuberi

    (Population Studies Center and Department of Sociology, University of Pennsylvania)

  • Kevin J.A. Thomas

    (Population Research Institute, Pennsylvania State University)

Abstract

Given above-average population growth, feeding sub-Saharan Africaís future population is an important challenge. This paper considers what we know about the relationship between population and food security and what population projections suggest will be the case over the next half century. It considers how the major sources of population change will affect food security in Africa during this period. Furthermore, it articulates the implications of population shocks, including HIV/AIDS and conflicts, on food security. The paper also discusses the implications of population increases on the environment and the use of land. Finally it suggests that land reform can be used to ameliorate some of the negative consequences of growth on food security.

Suggested Citation

  • Tukufu Zuberi & Kevin J.A. Thomas, "undated". "Demographic Projections, the Environment and Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa," UNDP Africa Policy Notes 2012-001, United Nations Development Programme, Regional Bureau for Africa.
    • Handle: RePEc:rac:wpaper:2012-001
    as

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    File URL: http://web.undp.org/africa/knowledge/WP-2012-001-zuberi-thomas-demography-environment.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Population; food security; environment; HIV/AIDS; Africa; Development; malnutrition; natural resources;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • Q56 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environment and Development; Environment and Trade; Sustainability; Environmental Accounts and Accounting; Environmental Equity; Population Growth

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