By Francesca Sabia
FAO HQ, ROME - As the non-stop days of this year’s edition of the World Food Forum Flagship event have come to an end, and as delegates, policymakers, and country leaders digest what has been discussed, it remains necessary to outline a thematic roadmap of the discussions held inside the FAO HQ’s rooms.
In the massive FAO building, amidst themed halls, traditional dances, music, and food, as well as outdoor tents hosting activities for indigenous groups, the 2024 edition of the World Food Forum Flagship event attracted anyone passionate and knowledgeable about the agri-food sector.
However, beyond the games, booths, and cultural corners of the atrium, the discussions took on a much deeper tone during the side events and conferences with expert speakers. Here, the transversal essence of the agri-food system was analyzed, not only highlighting what has already been achieved but also bringing global attention to the challenges ahead. The forum served as a wake-up call, pushing for immediate action to positively shift the course of food security and the overall agri-food system.
The alarming number of people without access to safe meals, the effects of climate change, and conflicts have significantly hindered the agri-food system, which is failing to provide healthy, sustainable, and accessible food for everyone. The WFF became a voice for those exposed to poverty, hunger, and food insecurity in the world’s most vulnerable areas; indeed, it emphasized how multistakeholder cooperation can help advance toward SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).
Of particular importance was the Science and Innovation Forum, which, following the theme of innovations applicable to aquaculture, agriculture, sustainable farming, and digital innovation, shed light on the cross-cutting role of technology in reforming the food and agri-food chain. Two major thematic focuses emerged: first, the role of biotechnology, with its potential to develop climate-resilient crops that require fewer pesticides and produce higher yields, benefiting the fight against food scarcity.
Additionally, digital agriculture was also under the forum’s attention. AI-powered tools can be used to improve climate and weather assessments, soil health evaluations, precision farming, and GIS imagery to map territories. These innovations would contribute to making agriculture more climate-smart, sustainable, efficient, reactive, and preventive in the face of changes.
However, achieving the SDGs requires substantial economic effort to export services, and innovations, build infrastructure, and promote training or educational programs in rural communities. The Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum called for adopting innovative financial tools, such as climate financing, and debt-for-nature.
Finally, a strong willingness for collaboration between international organizations, regional entities, development and reconstruction banks, and regional funds remains high.
Yet, who are the key actors and responsible categories to guide this change? The WFF identified three main categories:
Youth: Young people, through dedicated conferences and assemblies, were emphasized as essential figures of innovation in agri-food systems. With their openness to new technologies, perspectives, and often entrepreneurial attitude, young people have gained a prominent role in the sector. The WFF promoted active youth participation in policy-making, innovation hubs, and leadership roles. Moreover, programs like the Youth Action Plan and the WFF Innovation Hubs have been included in FAO's strategic plan to further their participation.
Women: Women, especially those in rural communities, play a central role in agricultural production but face barriers to accessing resources, land, and financing. Their empowerment is seen as necessary; thus, the forum emphasized the importance of gender equality in agri-food innovation, supporting women with access to technology, knowledge, and decision-making platforms.
Indigenous Populations: These groups were recognized for their vital role in promoting sustainable, regenerative agricultural practices and cultural heritage preservation. The WFF remarked on the importance of including indigenous peoples in decision-making processes and integrating their traditional techniques with modern innovations. Indigenous leaders themselves called for greater recognition of their rights, better access to financing for the agri-food system, and protection of their lands.
By adopting comprehensive and cross-cutting thematic discussions, the WFF outlined an inclusive vision for the future of agriculture – able to embrace innovation, equity, and cooperation among stakeholders. The agri-food system is complex, delicate, and sensitive; when its balance is altered – whether by natural disasters or man-made crises – the entire food chain is affected. By promoting innovation, and proactive cooperation among entities, the agri-food system can prove to be highly resilient, strong, responsive, and open to new approaches. Only by proceeding "Hand-in-Hand", leaving no one and nothing behind, can the future of the agri-food system be prosperous, sustainable, and optimistic.
An analysis inspired by WFF Flagship side events and conferences – available at UN WebTV.
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