Food Security Solutions Countries across the globe are shutting down to slow the spread of COVID-19. Supermarket shelves remain stocked for the time being, but a protracted pandemic crisis could quickly put a strain on food supply chains, disturbing the complex ecosystem of farmers, buyers, processing plants, logistics, retailers and consumers. The shipping and logistics industries are already reporting slowdowns due to port closures, which is expected to disrupt supply chains for the coming months.

In the Middle East, the combination of COVID-19 and the current Locust Plague pose a very real threat to the region’s ability to secure food in a safe, reliable, and affordable manner. Recognising this threat, consultants from SecLink’s offices in Dubai, Mumbai and Singapore have created an intervention agenda to guide governments in the immediate, short and medium term.

“COVID-19 is currently seen as a major health crisis, but its impact on the economy may lead to a food security crisis if proper measures are not taken in time.”

These measures include a Rapid Emergency Food Security Assessment, followed by a 10-point Action Plan that ensures food supply chain safety, prevents disruptions to security and production, and avoids price fluctuations.