A Non-governmental organisation under the aegis of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), has called on the federal government to impose at least 20% tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) in order to reduce the risks of non-communicable diseases.
The group while describing the products as the major factors contributing to the health crisis such as diabetes, stroke, hypertension, called on government to earmark the realised funds for the development of the healthcare sector.
Oluwafemi akinbode, who is director of the organisation made this plea at the opening ceremony of the 5-day Youth Bootcamp for Food Justice held at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, Ikogosi-Ekiti, Ekiti State
In his lecture titled “Movement Building, Youth Activism and the Quest for Healthy Food Policies in Nigeria”, Professor Adelaja Odukoya decried loss of food sovereignty which has worsened the food system, as communities no longer control what is produced, how it is distributed, or what is ultimately consumed.
Odukoya called on government and Nigerians to embrace food justice by prioritizing local foods, regaining control of food systems and ensuring that people are prioritised above profits.
A participant, Hope Ogunkar expressed her delight at the programme, saying she would use her platforms to sensitise people about food justice within and outside her vicinity.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
