Why it's wrong
The word 'crisis' implies a sudden emergency or breakdown that requires immediate intervention. Used too loosely, it describes structural challenges as permanent emergencies rather than identifiable, specific pressures.
What's actually true
FAO (2023) shows that acute food insecurity is primarily driven by specific shocks — conflict, climate variability, and economic disruption — rather than continuous systemic failure. The African Development Bank projects Africa's food and agriculture market will reach US$1 trillion by 2030.
Don't say · Say instead
Don't say
“The country has a crisis-prone food security system.”
Say instead
“Malawi's food system is under strain due to drought. / Acute food insecurity in Western Nigeria is being driven by specific shocks, including conflict or climate stress.”
Shorthand: Under strain due to [specific cause]