For almost half a century, Sub-Saharan Africa has been struggling, in one form or another, with food insecurity. This ongoing condition has been caused by a number of factors including, distribution obstacles, global climate change, a lack of successful local agriculture, and an inability or disinterest to act by local officials. The situation has been further complicated by an inefficient and disorganized international response to the crisis. By far, Southern Africa has borne the brunt of food insecurity with Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Malawi the hardest hit. To help us discuss this food insecurity crisis, we are joined on the line by:

Martin Malelembe: Channel Africa Malawi News Correspondent: David Orr: Communications Officer for Southern Africa United Nations World Food Programme Nokutula Mhene:Economic Justice Campaigns Advisor Oxfam South Africa Mr David Phiri - FAO Sub-regional Coordinator for Southern Africa