Each year, on October 16, the world comes together to mark World Food Day – a moment to reflect on progress and rally for change in a global quest to combat hunger.
The date marks the founding of the United Nations (UN) Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1945, a testament to decades of work focused on eradicating food insecurity and building sustainable food systems.
This year, with the theme ‘Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future – Leave No One Behind’, leaders and advocates convened in Rome to underscore the urgent need to make nutritious and affordable food accessible to all.
The event took place amidst growing global challenges: conflicts, economic strains, and climate shocks are pushing millions into hunger and jeopardising the nutrition of billions.
FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu opened the ceremony by emphasising the importance of efficient, inclusive, and sustainable agrifood systems.
“There is no time to lose,” Qu stated. “We must take immediate action to ensure everyone’s right to adequate food.”
A GLOBAL PLEDGE
King Letsie III of Lesotho, serving as FAO’s Special Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition, highlighted legislative efforts in Africa as examples of proactive change.
The African Union’s Pan-African Parliament has collaborated with FAO to craft a model law on food security and nutrition, inspiring member states to develop laws to uphold the right to food and strengthen food security.
In a stark reminder of the global disparities that persist, UN Secretary-General António Guterres pointed out, “Something is very wrong with a world where hunger and malnutrition are a daily reality for billions.”
He called for transformative changes to food systems, emphasising the need for more inclusive and sustainable solutions.
PROGRESS, INNOVATION AND STORIES
During the ceremony, FAO awarded the prestigious FAO Achievement Award to the Institute of Plant Protection of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science (IPPCAAS) for their work in combating crop-destroying pests.
Their success in addressing the Fall Armyworm has bolstered food security across Asia and beyond, showcasing how innovative practices can yield widespread benefits.
World Food Programme’s (WFP) Executive Director Cindy McCain shared how the organisation’s partnerships with local communities are helping mitigate the effects of climate change. Through anticipatory action and early warning systems, WFP supports communities before disasters strike, protecting lives and fostering resilience.
“We need everyone on board to achieve a future free from hunger,” she noted.
As a further step toward global education and participation, this year’s celebrations are set to continue with the Junior World Food Day Assembly.
Bringing together youth and change-makers, the event will feature renowned chefs, athletes, and sustainability advocates engaging with young audiences through stories, quizzes, and performances. This educational push reflects the belief that empowering the next generation is key to long-term change.
BUILDING TOWARDS 80 YEARS
A significant moment during the World Food Day event was the signing of a memorandum with the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM).
This agreement heralds the launch of a Food and Agriculture Museum, set to open on October 16, 2025, for FAO’s 80th anniversary. The museum will be a dynamic space to celebrate global food heritage and foster dialogue on the future of food systems.
STEPPING UP
FAO’s ongoing efforts include addressing food security and nutrition through initiatives such as the Hand-in-Hand programme and technical cooperation projects aimed at long-term sustainability. Yet, the barriers remain steep.
The climate crisis, economic inequalities, and conflicts continue to place millions at risk.
As Ophelia Nick of Germany’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture pointed out, “All conflicts, wars, and multiple crises are human-made and affect food security worldwide. We have the responsibility to foster cooperation and overcome these times of crisis.”
The United States Ambassador to the UN Agencies in Rome Jeffrey Prescott captured the gravity of the challenge succinctly.
“Hunger in a world of abundance is an insult to human dignity.” He called for further cooperation and commitment to initiatives that bolster agrifood systems and improve crop and soil adaptability.
LOOKING AHEAD
WFP’s track record showcases how humanitarian support evolves into sustainable development.
Beyond emergency food distribution, WFP helps communities rebuild through resilience projects, school feeding programmes, and support for smallholder farmers.
This work is crucial for laying a foundation where children, particularly those in conflict zones or areas ravaged by climate shocks, can look forward to healthier futures.
The urgency for a global commitment to eradicating hunger has never been clearer.
As this World Food Day highlighted, securing the right to food is not just a goal but a moral imperative – one that calls for action from individuals, governments, and organisations alike. – Features Desk
