France 24 English published a video segment on statements made by the President of Senegal. President Macky Sall has appealed to the West to ease sanctions on Russia to facilitate the export of grain to Africa. Millions on the continent face hunger amid a global food crisis sparked by the Ukraine war. Russia is the largest exporter of cereals and fertilizers. These requests are incompatible with sanctions. Africa has appealed to western partners. Why is Africa so badly impacted? In an interview with France 24 English, senior research fellow David Laborde who said there has been conflict and economic downturns in the past, but Africa relies on exports from the Black Sea for crops as well as fertilizer. This makes things difficult for African countries. Laborde said that "we have to be careful about the narrative coming from Russia that the biggest problem is sanctions. The biggest problem is the war and other drivers. The sanctions can have a moderate impact. The sanctions aren't targeting fertilizer and food products, but businesses are afraid to trade with Russia." Laborde doesn't believe it’s true that Russia wants to cause instability and hunger in Russia. "I think many African countries had at one point in time could be self-sufficient, but as of today, there is a need for cash to pay for food. Global solidarity is key." "Africa is a diverse country that does business with Russia, China, the United States, and the European Union. They don't want to make enemies in this situation." Also available on YouTube.
