Do COVID-19 and Food Insecurity Influence Existing Inequalities between Women and Men in Africa?

Abstract

This review sought to understand what is currently known about how the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and restrictive measures are affecting food security and equality between women and men in all of Africa. A review of both the academic and grey literature was performed by following PRISMA guidelines. Results showed that a general disparity exists in gender-inclusive/-sensitive research. Most reported increases in inequalities between women and men were predictive only. Evidence-based articles found were mainly conducted online and target tertiary educated populations, among which neutral effects were found. A general lack of disaggregated data (e.g., women vs. men) was found to be a barrier in gaining a complete understanding of the situation on-the-ground. Furthermore, documents reporting on food security seldom included all four pillars (i.e., availability, access, utility, stability) in their analysis despite the reciprocal connection between them all. Within household disparities and the impacts on power relationships within households were also overlooked. Future studies must focus on rural settings and gender disaggregated interview processes as well as consider all pillars of food security. Doing so will help to better inform governments and humanitarian groups leading to better designed policies and social supports that target where they are most needed.