![](https://archives-ad.policycenter.ma/sites/default/files/Mini-BBanni%C3%A8re%20-%20Wheat%20Value%20Chain%20and%20Food%20Security%20in%20the%20MENA%20Region..jpg)
Wheat Value Chain and Food Security in the MENA Region
OCP Policy Center, Rabat
By Ghada Ahmed, Senior Research analyst, Duke University, Center on Globalization, Governance and Competitiveness.
Food security is a central issue for developing countries, particularly those of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). In this region, wheat is a very important and strategic commodity component. More than a pillar of food security, wheat is also a pillar of economic and social stability.
In a national and international context, characterized by regular supply shocks and growth in demand for this commodity, the domestic market of the latter is subject to relative state intervention. The states may have control over the management of food supplies of wheat, and beyond, and may extend to the entire value chain.
Indeed, national policies must guarantee, throughout the value chain, a decent income to actors of wheat production, while maintaining balanced consumer prices and stable supply to satisfy the four dimensions of food security. In addition, these strategies may vary from one country to another depending on: local production capacity, storage, food diversification, among others. To achieve these objectives, decision-makers should craft adequate policies, taking into consideration ground realities.
In this regard, the Center on Globalization, Governance and Competitiveness (CGGC, Duke University) has a research project on food security policies and the global food value chain in the MENA region. The presentation host by OCP Policy Center will focus on the results of that research and discuss further elements.
Keep me informed-
Ghada AHMED
Ghada is a 2010 graduate of the Master in International Development Policy in the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University. Ms. Ahmed has over 18 years' experience working in the Middle East and the United States. Her experience includes international project management, human resources talent management and international development. Her research interests have been in green technologies, job creation, and development strategies. Ms. Ahmed is fluent in spoken and written Arabic. Her country experience includes the U.S.A., Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Ethiopia. She provided home office support for proposals and programs in Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Indonesia, Morocco, Sudan, Uganda, D.R.C., and Bosnia for RTI International from 2005-2009.