"The Economist" is concerned about the increase of obesity on the African continent, which coexists with malnutrition. "The increase in waist-circumference is linked to diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular risks. The COVID-19 pandemic, which is extremely dangerous for overweight people, makes this issue even more urgent," writes the newspaper.
The increase in the number of people who are overweight in Africa is due to rising standards of living that have led more and more people to migrate to urban centers, "where they have acquired a taste for junk food.
In Zambia, for example, 35% of women and 20% of men are overweight (BMI >25). However, this has not eliminated nutritional deficiencies. 30% of boys and 20% of girls aged 5-19 are considered underweight.
It will not be easy to respond to these worrisome problems for the future of the continent... Children will have to learn how to eat better, labels on packaged foods will also have to clearly indicate their composition.
Food problems being linked to underdevelopment, economies will have to grow and be better structured, to get out of this double curse: hunger and junk food!
Source : LES ECHOS et THE ECONOMIST
