Leaders and experts from the agriculture and food security sectors gathered to discuss innovative solutions and strategies to strengthen global food security and build resilient food systems.
The summit brought together 21 ministers and government officials responsible for global food security, as well as leading experts and scientists from around the world. Discussions focused on current challenges, future opportunities, and the importance of ensuring food systems are resilient and sustainable to address future crises.
Organized by ADNEC in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the summit highlighted the alarming statistic that over 733 million people worldwide suffer from hunger, a crisis that threatens peace, stability, and human dignity.
The summit also emphasized the vital role of the Islamic Organization for Food Security in tackling these challenges, noting significant progress in 41 member states through initiatives focused on governance, sustainability, and resource mobilization.
A proposal was made for a dedicated Food Security Day for members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, offering a platform for ongoing action and reflection to improve food security systems.
Focus on Africa
A key highlight of the summit was the focus on sustainable agri-food systems in Africa, particularly in West Africa, where approximately 73% of farming households have improved their resilience to climate shocks.
Held for the first time in the region, the summit took place under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, as part of Global Food Week, which ran from November 26â€"28 at ADNEC Abu Dhabi. The event also featured the Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition, the Abu Dhabi Date Show, and the Abu Dhabi Coffee Platform.
Key recommendations
Summit participants stressed sustainability as a key pillar of food security. Recommendations included more efficient resource utilization, the adoption of renewable energy in agriculture, and support for value-added food production. The importance of diversifying export markets and attracting foreign direct investments to stimulate economic growth was also emphasized.
The empowerment of women in agriculture was a central theme, with participants recognizing the critical role women play in advancing economic sustainability within the food sector.
Despite the challenges posed by greenhouse gas emissions, the summit also highlighted opportunities for a transition to clean energy. A six-pillar frameworkâ€"encompassing inclusivity, incentives, information, investments, institutions, and innovationâ€"was proposed to drive an effective and inclusive transformation in global food systems.
Innovative solutions
The summit showcased cutting-edge solutions to feed the growing global population, emphasizing the need for investments in advanced agricultural technologies and sustainable practices to ensure reliable food supplies for future generations.
Call for global action
The summit concluded with a strong call for global collaboration across food value chains to overcome current challenges and build resilient food systems. Participants stressed the urgent need for international cooperation to create a fair, resilient global food system that guarantees sustainable and healthy food for all.
UAE's leadership praised
Participants praised the UAE's leadership in food security, with the summit reaffirming the nation's commitment to addressing this critical global issue.
The UAE's Ne'ma initiative, aimed at transforming consumer behavior and reducing food waste, was also commended.
The summit reinforced the importance of investing in scientific research, promoting crop diversification, and adopting sustainable practices, all of which are essential for building resilient food systems and ensuring reliable, sustainable food supplies for future generations.
IGIHE
