I think the problems are way more complicated. Food aid might be absolutely necessary in some cases, Kenya for example (which for some reason has fallen off the media radar lately, and all that we hear these days is about the inflation in Zimbabwe), but then it should be followed by many more essentials. Are the local food distribution systems any good? What is being done to solve the problem on a longer-term basis by building up local agricultural capacity? Is the leadership of the country to be blamed instead of blind US bashing, for creating a false image of food scarcity in the country? I think it is only after analyzing multiple factors that conclusions should be made.

In general, I somehow don't like broad claims and analysis done by journalists. They always seem to portray stories to create a sensation rather than provide an actual scientific analysis. Good analysis generally does exist, but it is largely incomprehensible for most people. Instead of bringing more clarity to issues, the media often creates more confusions.