Recently, world leaders have been grappling with a multitude of pressing issues, including conflict, war, and climate change. These challenges command significant attention from various stakeholders worldwide. However, amidst the clamour of these urgent matters, a silent and universal crisis continues to unfold: hunger. This serious issue, often overshadowed by more visible global concerns, remains a critical threat to millions of lives, particularly in underdeveloped and developing nations.
The growing global population exacerbates the problem of food insecurity. If left unaddressed, the disparity between food supply and demand is likely to broaden, leaving countless individuals vulnerable to hunger. Climate change compounds this threat, disrupting agricultural productivity and affecting the livelihoods of farmers around the globe. As weather patterns shift and extreme weather events become more frequent, the ability to grow food sustainably is jeopardized, further endangering food security.
To combat hunger effectively, it is imperative that all stakeholders’ governments, international organizations, non-profits, and the private sectors prioritize this issue. A concerted effort is essential not only to provide immediate relief but also to implement long-term strategies that ensure access to nutritious food for all.
Ethiopia serves as a moving example of a nation striving to tackle food insecurity head-on. With over 80% of its population engaged in agriculture, the country is actively working to enhance its food security. Recent reforms across various sectors have begun to yield positive results. In agriculture, initiatives aimed at improving crop yields and fostering sustainable practices are gaining traction. Notably, Ethiopia has not only focused on local consumption but has also begun exporting its wheat, demonstrating a commitment to increasing food availability both domestically and internationally. These initiatives are a testament to what can be achieved with dedicated effort and reform. By sharing successful strategies and innovations, countries can collectively work towards eradicating hunger once and for all.
In a significant step towards addressing this critical issue, Addis Ababa will host a high-level international conference from November 5 to 7, 2024. This gathering aims to tackle the challenge of a world without hunger, bringing together over 1,500 participants from various sectors. As the deadline for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2030 approaches, this conference represents a crucial opportunity for dialogue and action. It will serve as a platform for stakeholders to share insights, explore solutions, and galvanize commitment towards achieving the ambitious goal of zero hunger by 2030.
The upcoming conference not only symbolizes hope for millions affected by hunger but also underscores the urgent need for global cooperation. As we move closer to the SDG target, it is essential that the world recognizes hunger as a priority issue, deserving of focused attention alongside other global challenges. By fostering collaboration and implementing effective strategies, we can pave the way for a future where hunger is no longer a silent killer, but a historical footnote.
During the press briefing about the conference, Industry Minister Melaku Alebel stated that it will provide an opportunity to explore technological solutions for tackling hunger and discuss how the government and private sectors can collaborate to eradicate it. He also mentioned that the conference will focus on increasing production and yield. Additionally, he expects the event to generate ideas for ensuring food security and addressing hunger-related issues.
“Sustainable investment in agribusiness and food systems must be at the heart of government actions if we are to achieve the SDG goal of a world without hunger,” Melaku noted
Dejene Tezera, UNIDO’s Director of Agribusiness and Infrastructure, on his part, said that UNIDO aims to drive the structural transformation of economies in developing countries to address pressing global issues, including hunger.
As of today, the world population stands at approximately 8.2 billion, expected to reach 10 billion by 2050. This demographic shift necessitates a staggering 70% increase in food production, utilizing existing land and water resources. Currently, one in eleven people about 735 million globally suffers from undernourishment, with 250 million of these individuals residing in the least developed countries. Alarmingly, 30% of the global population cannot afford healthy food, he said.
In Africa, one in five people faces hunger, underscoring the urgency of the situation. With only six years remaining to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal of zero hunger by 2030, the challenge appears daunting. Projections suggest that over 580 million people may still experience hunger by that year.
He added that the agriculture sector contributes to 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the interconnectedness of food security and climate challenges. To address these issues, a collaborative global effort is essential. Initiatives such as the United Nations Food Systems Summit, G20, and G7 are mobilizing partnerships and resources to combat hunger.
Compounding these challenges are the lingering effects of climate change floods, heat waves, and droughts as well as a global economic slowdown that has driven up prices for nutritious food, making it increasingly inaccessible for low-income populations. Income inequality further exacerbates the issue, with around 10% of people living below the poverty line, Dejene added.
In response to these pressing challenges, UNIDO, in partnership with the Ethiopian government and the African Union Commission, has organized this conference. This event will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including scientists, heads of state, private sector representatives, and policymakers, to discuss food security and hunger-related challenges and solutions.
According to Dejene the first day of the conference will focus on solutions, addressing technical challenges, and exploring conservation technologies, policy measures, financial strategies, and skill development. The second day will be dedicated to investment needs, facilitating discussions among the private sector, government, and international financial institutions. A thorough study of global investment requirements to end hunger will be presented.
On the third day, high-level officials and philanthropic leaders will outline the necessary global actions and partnerships to eradicate hunger. A financial mechanism will be established to support integrated actions against hunger, culminating in the Addis Ababa Declaration.
Also, Dejene highlighted the long-standing partnership between UNIDO and the Ethiopian government across various sectors, including agri-food, textiles, and skills development. Notably, pilot agro-food parks are being developed in three regions of Ethiopia through public-private partnerships, creating 17,000 jobs with a goal of reaching 400,000. Additionally, 140,000 smallholder farmers have been integrated into the value chain, facilitating market access and generating $40 million in exports last year.
As the conference approaches, Tezera expressed optimism about the potential outcomes and collaborative efforts to combat hunger globally.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 5 NOVEMBER 2024
