Russia's War in Ukraine Threatens Food Security for The Gambia

Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine is having far-reaching consequences for countries like The Gambia, where food security is under threat. Disruptions in global trade are impacting Gambians' daily lives, with rising prices of wheat, shipping rates, insurance costs, fuel costs, and fertilizer prices affecting importers, wholesalers, and consumers alike.

The war has reduced food imports from Ukraine to The Gambia by 50%, exacerbating an already vulnerable situation. With 7.8% of the global population facing hunger and 29% of Gambians being food insecure, this could tip more regions into famine.

Ukraine supplied 15% of the world's corn, 10% of its wheat, and 50% of its sunflower oil before Russia's full-scale invasion. Now, grain exports have been halved compared to last year, driving up global food prices. The EU is stepping in with support, but alternative routes cannot fully replace normal Black Sea access, which handles 90% of Ukrainian agricultural exports.

A moratorium on attacks against grain export facilities and infrastructure is urgently needed to ensure the safe passage of civilian vessels and protect critical infrastructure. This would also give farmers, exporters, and international food markets the predictability they need now.