The Impact of Food Insecurity on Standard of Living in Selected ECOWAS Countries

Abstract

This work examined the impact of food insecurity on the standard of living in selected ECOWAS countries using panel data spanning the period 2005–2024. The study was motivated by the persistent food insecurity challenges facing many West African countries despite various agricultural and economic policies implemented to improve welfare and living conditions. The study adopted a panel data methodology and utilized secondary data sourced from the World Bank World Development Indicators (WDI) and the United Nations Development Programme Human Development Reports. Human Development Index (HDI) was used as a proxy for standard of living, while Food Production Index (FPI), Prevalence of Undernourishment (POU), Population Growth Rate (POPG), and Inflation Rate (INF) were employed as explanatory variables. The study employed pooled Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), Fixed Effects, and Random Effects estimation techniques, while the Hausman specification test was used to determine the most appropriate model. The study concluded that food security remains a significant determinant of standard of living in ECOWAS countries. Consequently, the study recommended increased investment in agricultural productivity, improved food distribution systems, inflation control policies, and stronger regional cooperation aimed at achieving sustainable food security and improved welfare across the region.