• Premier requests global fund for food security
ADDIS ABABA- Strong political will, sufficient financial and technological support, and visionary leadership are essential to transforming efforts to end hunger into meaningful action, President Taye Atske-Selassie said.
Speaking at the closing session of the World Without Hunger Conference yesterday, President Taye emphasized that effective mobilization, societal engagement, and robust resources are foundational elements for a zero-hunger commitment.
He underscored that visionary leadership is crucial to achieving these goals. “Only then can we transform the outcomes of this three-day conference, mobilize partnerships, showcase best practices, and identify investment needs to eradicate hunger,” he stated. President Taye praised the commitment displayed at the conference, highlighting it as key to building a world free from hunger. He noted that the conference illuminated the challenges of achieving zero hunger and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating the complexity of these efforts.
President Taye also stressed the importance of sustainable agricultural practices, agro-industrialization, and climate resilience as comprehensive solutions. He indicated empowering smallholder farmers, strengthening communities, and investing in both physical and digital infrastructure to transform agriculture and manufacturing. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to the Green Legacy Initiative, which has increased forest coverage by 23.6%, with a substantial focus on agroforestry.
Ethiopia is also actively developing integrated agro-industrial parks and investing in drought-resistant crops like wheat and sorghum to boost food security. “I urge a firm commitment to prioritize zero hunger in our national development agendas, as outlined in the SDGs,” he added.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) stated that integrating technology, promoting innovation, and building climate resilience must be central to collective efforts. Addressing the final day of the summit, PM Abiy outlined the urgent need to enhance resilience in agriculture. “Our shared discussions highlighted critical deliverables to guide our collective actions, including a global fund for food security.”
He emphasized that countries have committed to establishing these financial resources to drive targeted investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, advanced agricultural technology, and disaster-resistant food systems. He noted that the fund would be a lifeline, particularly for regions most vulnerable to food insecurity. Advancing technological innovation and prioritizing knowledge-sharing to build resilient food systems are also crucial. “We have agreed to create a platform for cross-border knowledge exchange, focusing on climate-smart agriculture and post-harvest management.”
PM Abiy further stressed the importance of strengthening policy and governance frameworks, aligning policies across nations to foster fair market access and equitable food distribution systems essential for global food security. Supporting smallholder farmers, especially women in agriculture, is part of the global commitment. “By expanding market access, providing inclusive financial options, and building capacity, we can empower farmers to feed their communities worldwide,” he added.
He indicated that these deliverables represent a roadmap and a call to action for governments, development banks, and the private sector to mobilize, invest, and collaborate.
UNIDO Director-General Gerd Muller underscored that peace and good governance are vital to achieving a hunger-free world. With effective investment and a strong market chain, he believes a world without hunger is achievable. He highlighted Africa’s rich potential and called for fair partnerships, urging G7 countries to fulfill their commitments to support this vision.
AUC Deputy Chair Monique Nsanzabaganwa stressed the need for coordinated investment, agro-industrialization, and climate-smart agriculture to effectively fight hunger.
Kenyan President William Ruto called for bold, collaborative action, commending Ethiopia’s advances in irrigation and infrastructure development. Leaders agreed that achieving a hunger-free world requires both political will and partnership.
BY BETELHEM BEDLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2024
