UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the need for countries to adopt climate-smart food policies and enhance private sector participation to reduce reliance on food imports.
The second UN Food Systems Summit is taking place in Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa in the presence of several heads of state and government including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Kenyan President William Ruto, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Comoros President Azali Assoumani, UN Under-Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, African Union Commission Chairperson Mohamed Yusuf.
In his virtually extended message to the summit, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised Ethiopia and Italy for their collaboration in co-hosting the 2nd Food Systems Summit alongside the UN.
Since the inaugural UN Food Systems Summit, numerous countries have formulated and executed strategies aimed at transforming food systems.
Additionally, over 100 countries have initiated efforts to align food systems with challenges pertaining to climate change and biodiversity.
Guterres observed that the instability within the trade system has resulted in a rise in global food prices, thereby complicating individuals’ capacity to purchase healthy and safe food.
The UN Chief further emphasized the significance of investing in food systems, as it is crucial for the attainment of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
He highlighted the actions being undertaken to foster climate-resilient food system policies aimed at boosting production capacity and decreasing reliance on imported goods.
The Secretary-General also clarified that the initiatives being executed within the food system are generating employment opportunities. He highlighted that minimizing waste and optimizing the value chain are crucial for enhancing productivity, while also stressing the importance of adopting new technologies, such as artificial intelligence.
He further stated that developing nations require debt relief, access to essential financing, and reform of the global financial system.
Guterres also underscored the necessity for collective efforts to realize food system transformation, ensure food security, and expedite growth.
ENA
