Why Africa Should Embrace Territorial Markets to Withstand Climate Shocks and Crises HARARE, Oct 4 2024 (IPS) – African policymakers, local leaders and the private sector have been asked to create an enabling environment that will help African traders and farmer folks build reliable systems for food security and resilience through territorial markets. During a week-long 2024 Africa Agroecological Entrepreneurship and Seed Festival in Harare, Zimbabwe, experts observed that persistent crises have shown the importance of resilient close-to-home ‘territorial’ markets that feed billions of people every day—from public markets and street vendors to cooperatives, from urban agriculture to online direct sales, and from food hubs to community kitchens.

In a bid to mitigate such shocks and ensure food security, experts have been exploring the potential of agricultural land expansion in the United States and other parts of the world. However, this approach is fraught with challenges. Experts argue that while expanding agricultural land could theoretically increase food production, it often leads to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.

The aim is to create a sustainable and equitable food system that supports local economies and reduces environmental impact. ## The Importance of Territorial Markets Territorial markets are crucial for several reasons:

• They promote local economies by supporting small-scale agroecological food producers and business owners. * They help reduce environmental impact by minimizing transportation and packaging waste. * They foster community engagement and social cohesion by bringing people together around shared values and goals. For example, in the town of XYZ, a territorial market was established that has since become a hub for local farmers and artisans.

  The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Cape Town, reveals that a small number of companies dominate the market, leading to limited competition and higher prices for consumers. ## The Dominance of Profit-Oriented Corporate Value Chains in Africa A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Cape Town has shed light on the concentration of profit-oriented corporate value chains in Africa’s marketplaces. The findings reveal that a small number of companies hold significant market power, resulting in limited competition and higher prices for consumers. * The study analyzed data from various industries across Africa, including agriculture, manufacturing, and retail.

  The Imperative for Local and Regional Supply Chain Reinvestment

  In the wake of global disruptions, the importance of robust local and regional supply chains has never been more apparent. Governments worldwide are being urged to take decisive action to reinvest in these critical infrastructures.

  The market, which is a hub for local produce, has been a key player in the country’s agricultural sector. ## The Heart of Zimbabwe’s Agricultural Sector The Mbare Musika territorial market in Harare stands as a testament to the rich agricultural diversity of Zimbabwe.

  The market is a hub for traders and customers, with a wide variety of goods available. ## Introduction to Mbare Musika Market Mbare Musika Market, nestled next to the main bus-park in Harare, serves as a bustling hub for traders and customers alike.

  The Impending Crisis in Global Food Chains

  The global food supply chain is a complex network that spans continents, involving numerous stakeholders from farmers to consumers. However, this intricate system is increasingly vulnerable to a series of crises that threaten its stability. * Climate Change: – Unpredictable weather patterns are disrupting agricultural production. – Droughts and floods are becoming more frequent, affecting crop yields.