Why Are Several People Dying- What Are The Causes of Hunger?

Hunger is still on the rage in most African countries despite other major developments made. This problem is not only experienced in Africa but also in some parts of Asia and South America. Hunger has claimed hundreds millions of innocent lives over time; why should a menace that can be avoided still be one of the gravest dangers in the 21st century?

Let us take a look at some of the causes of hunger in some of the poorest states of the world.

Invasion of drought

Drought is the major cause of hunger. Long spells of the cruel sun eat up the crops; the plants lack water to sustain their growth leading to very low yields.

Unemployment on the increase

Many people are not employed and the few who are lucky to have been employed earn what cannot sustain their dependants.

A Rise in Population

The population is quickly increasing leading to scarcity of land to be used in farming. The small pieces available yield less food that cannot sustain the people.

Poor Farming Methodologies

Though tiny pieces of land are available for farming, the methods of farming used are poor. Governments in poor countries do not have proper structures of training the farmers and helping them purchase modern equipment. This leads to low yields.

Failing to Put Swampy Lands into Use

Some areas have simply been neglected by some governments. As an example, swampy areas that can be rehabilitated and put into use have been left idle. Some of this land can be transformed and help lift millions of people out of poverty. What are these leaders waiting for?

Poor Storage Techniques

Those that harvest a fair quantity of food (though rare) use outdated and ineffective means in storing the crops. Most of it rots … yes it rots … while some others are dying of hunger. Authorities don’t help the farmers in selling the farm products. It’s such a shame when food rots yet there are others who are in serious need of it. To make matters worse, the surplus brought to markets is slowly sold and people end up purchasing it at intolerable costs.

The above are some of the causes of hunger. It is time leaders wake up and make sure that no-one dies of hunger. Vote out the corrupt leaders and elect fresh blood into the veins of the political systems. It is avoidable; no human life should be lost because of lack of food.

Mercy Nikenya is a member and regular contributor at Nikenya Forums. Find her at the christian segment for all your spiritual needs.