Way Out of the So-Called Resource Trap
The World Hunger Index 2015 states that the hidden hunger problem in Zambia is getting worse. Scientists see this development as a possible effect of the so-called resource trap. The economic theory of the resource trap suggests that countries depending on their rich natural resources are more likely to experiences low growth rates, poverty and inequality than countries with few natural resources. Investments into education and health prevention are too low in countries within the resource trap.
A way out of the so-called resource trap is offered by the Fome Zero (Zero Hunger) governmental program in Brazil. In the framework of that program, pregnant and breastfeeding women were obliged to take part in measures for nutrition knowledge. In addition, family-run agricultural businesses were subsidised and the production of fruit and vegetables was significantly increased due to financial incentives. Thus, Brazil was able to reduce its World Hunger Index by two thirds.
Read and see more:
A. Boos and K. Holm-Müller. 2015. The Zambian Resource Curse and its Influence on Genuine Savings as an Indicator for ‘Weak’ Sustainable Development. Environment, Development and Sustainability. http://bit.ly/1gv0R8