Desk Review of Food Safety Emergency Response in Eight African Countries: Policy Evaluation, Response Mechanisms, and Infrastructure Gaps
Abstract:
Foodborne diseases (FBDs) impose a heavy burden in Africa, yet the capacity for emergency response to food safety incidents varies widely across countries. This study evaluates food safety emergency response frameworks in eight African nations – Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Cameroon, and South Africa – selected for regional and developmental diversity. The national policies, response mechanisms, and infrastructure gaps, were analysed drawing on publicly available data and case studies. Findings reveal that while policy initiatives such as new food safety authorities and national plans are emerging, most countries face fragmented oversight, limited laboratory and surveillance capacity, and weak coordination for outbreak response. Notable incidents, such as Kenya’s 2004 aflatoxin poisoning (317 cases, 125 deaths) and South Africa’s 2017–2018 listeriosis outbreak (world’s largest) underscore the consequences of delayed response and highlight gaps in preparedness. Countries with recent reforms (Egypt’s unified Food Safety Authority, Ghana’s emergency plan) show progress, but others continue to struggle with outdated laws, resource constraints, and poor inter-agency communication. Strengthening national food safety systems – through coherent policy, integrated response mechanisms, improved infrastructure, and regional collaboration – is critical to reduce health risks. I conclude with policy recommendations emphasizing a One Health approach, capacity building, and effective coordination to improve food safety emergency responses across Africa.
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