The Invisible Engine of West African Food Security: Trucking and the $10 Billion Trade
West Africa’s food systems are more interconnected than many realize. A recent report from the OECD’s Sahel and West Africa Club (SWAC) reveals that a massive, largely undocumented, intra-regional food trade – valued at around $10 billion annually – is quietly bolstering food security across the region. And it’s almost entirely powered by trucks.
The Dominance of the Road: How Food Moves Across West Africa
Forget images of compact-scale farmers directly supplying local markets. The reality is that nearly 78% of food traded within West Africa is transported by large, 10- to 22-wheel trucks with an average capacity of 35 tons. Another 9% relies on 6- to 8-wheel trucks carrying 17 tons. This points to a highly organized system driven by established traders, not a fragmented network of small transactions.
These aren’t random routes either. Key regional corridors like Dakar-Bamako (1,360 km), Abidjan-Lagos (1,000 km) and Niamey-Lomé (1,000 km) are the lifelines of this trade, facilitating the movement of goods to rapidly growing urban centers.
Seasonal Flows: Filling the Gaps in Local Production
The trade isn’t constant; it’s highly responsive to seasonal variations. For example, during the off-season, up to 90% of the tomatoes sold in Tamale, northern Ghana, originate from Burkina Faso. Similarly, the onion market heavily relies on imports from neighboring countries. This demonstrates the crucial role of cross-border trade in ensuring a consistent food supply.
The $480 Billion Opportunity: Regional Demand is Soaring
Looking ahead, demand for food products in West Africa is projected to surge to $480 billion by 2030, a significant increase from $126 billion in 2010. These established traders are poised to remain central to meeting this growing need, moving staple products between exporting and importing nations.
Unlocking Potential: Reducing Non-Tariff Barriers
Despite the scale of this trade, its full potential is hampered by significant obstacles. Non-tariff barriers – such as multiple checkpoints and informal levies along major road networks – add costs and delays, hindering the efficient flow of goods.
The Cost of Red Tape: Millions Lost to Inefficiencies
Studies highlight the economic impact of these barriers. A 2023 report by the French Centre for Prospective Studies and International Information (CEPII) estimates that eliminating these practices could generate an additional $19 million annually in the corn sector (with $13.4 million going directly to producers) and $48.4 million in the onion sector ($33.4 million for producers).
Pro Tip: Investing in streamlined border procedures and reducing informal levies are crucial steps towards boosting agricultural trade and strengthening food security in West Africa.
Beyond Trade: The Link to Regional Stability
While the focus is often on economic gains, improved regional trade too has broader implications for stability. Facilitating the movement of goods can foster stronger relationships between countries and reduce tensions related to food access.
FAQ: West African Food Trade
Q: How much of West Africa’s food trade is currently undocumented?
A: A significant portion – around 90% of the total volume – remains outside official statistics, valued at approximately $10 billion per year.
Q: What types of trucks are most commonly used for intra-regional food trade?
A: The majority (78%) are large trucks with 10-22 wheels and a 35-ton capacity, with another 9% using 6-8 wheel trucks with a 17-ton capacity.
Q: What are non-tariff barriers and why are they a problem?
A: Non-tariff barriers include things like checkpoints and informal levies. They increase costs and delays, hindering trade and reducing potential economic benefits.
Did you know? Eliminating non-tariff barriers could add millions of dollars to the corn and onion sectors, directly benefiting producers.
Desire to learn more about food security in Africa? Explore the latest reports from the OECD and CGIAR.
Share your thoughts! What other challenges and opportunities do you witness for intra-regional trade in West Africa? Exit a comment below.
