Dr. Barrister Ateh Thomson Pepeah from Bamenda-Cameroon has been elected Secretary General of the Pan-African Legal Network on Food and Nutrition (PALNEF). He ascended to this role at the General Assembly of the institution held recently in Mombasa, Kenya despite knowing that the path ahead is strewn with immense challenges, particularly in the fight for healthier food systems across Africa.
Dr. Ateh steps into the role of Secretary General at a time when the continent's food security and public health are at a critical juncture. PALNEF, headquartered in Arusha, Tanzania, has been at the forefront of efforts to combat the manipulation of African markets by foreign food industries, but the challenges remain daunting. Weak institutions, limited enforcement capacity, and systemic corruption continue to stymie progress. As Dr. Ateh takes office, he faces the immediate task of strengthening advocacy, regulatory frameworks, and legal mechanisms to combat these challenges.
Africa continues to grapple with serious health and nutrition issues, worsened by the overwhelming presence of ultra-processed foods and the infiltration of expired and non-compliant food products, often imported by multinational companies seeking to exploit the continent's weak regulatory systems. For decades, these companies have targeted Africa as a dumping ground for low-quality food products, undermining the health of millions and contributing to a surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension.
One of the most pressing issues on his agenda is addressing the epidemic of non-communicable diseases fueled by the growing consumption of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods. These foods, high in sugar, salt, and saturated fats, have become widespread in African markets due to aggressive marketing and the absence of stringent food labeling laws. In his role as the head of the legal department at the It is Reconciliation and Development Association (RADA), Dr. Ateh was a key figure in pushing for Cameroon’s first legislation on front-of-package warning labels for food products that exceed WHO-recommended thresholds. His experience here will be crucial as he tackles similar regulatory issues across the continent.
Beyond policy, Dr. Ateh faces the challenge of public interest litigation against powerful multinational food corporations. These corporations, often backed by considerable financial and political influence, have historically resisted regulation and legal action. His role may have to involve galvanizing legal professionals and human rights advocates across Africa to take on these industry giants in the courts, an arduous and long-term battle that will require unwavering resolve.
Dr. Ateh's fight for food and nutrition security must also address the structural inequalities that make millions of Africans vulnerable to unhealthy diets. Widespread poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and weak healthcare systems complicate efforts to promote nutrition and well-being. As Secretary General, he must work with governments, civil society organizations, and international bodies to create sustainable food systems that prioritize the health of African consumers over the profit interests of foreign corporations.
Additionally, he must navigate Africa’s diverse cultural and political landscapes. With representation from various regions of the continent, PALNEF must be able to tailor its initiatives to local contexts while maintaining a unified, continent-wide approach. Building partnerships with governments, civil society, and local communities will be critical to achieving PALNEF's goals.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Ateh brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. A multidisciplinary academic and lawyer with expertise in health economics, medical law, and human rights, he is well-positioned to confront the complex issues facing Africa’s food and nutrition landscape. His commitment to evidence-based research, coupled with his legal acumen, provides a solid foundation for the work ahead. But his greatest challenge will be rallying the continent to not only recognize the urgent need for action but to actively resist the forces that perpetuate Africa’s food insecurity.
As Dr. Ateh assumes his new position, the weight of responsibility is clear. Africa’s future health depends on his ability to lead PALNEF in advancing food dignity, public interest litigation, and stronger regulations. Dr. Ateh's journey as Secretary General has only just begun, but it is a critical step in Africa’s ongoing fight for a healthier and more secure food future.
By Bakah Derick
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