Tackle Food Insecurity

Food insecurity poses a formidable challenge to the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), where a significant proportion of the population struggles to access sufficient, safe, and nutritious food on a regular basis. This crisis has been further exacerbated by a combination of challenges, including extreme weather events, climate change, economic difficulties, and the COVID-19 pandemic. This situation has drawn global attention, prompting leaders to address the issue at the international forum. Addressing the United Nations Food Systems Summit in Rome of Italy recently, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' highlighted the gravity of the situation and emphasised the devastating impact the pandemic has had on livelihoods and food prices in the LDCs. The Prime Minister's call for a united effort to achieve sustainable agricultural development, double agricultural productivity, and invest in resilient practices is undeniably crucial. The LDCs heavily rely on agriculture for livelihoods and sustenance, and sustainable practices are necessary to ensure long-term food security. Doubling agricultural productivity can help meet the growing demands of an expanding population, but this must be achieved without degrading natural resources and ecosystems. 

Calls for sustainable practices and increased agricultural productivity in the past have seen slow and uneven progress, hindered by inadequate actions and financial support from wealthier nations. Despite promises of aid, vulnerable communities in LDCs still struggle to access essential resources, technology, and expertise for sustainable agriculture. To address the underlying structural issues perpetuating food insecurity, efforts must be directed at addressing inequalities in resource distribution and power dynamics. Marginalised populations, such as smallholder farmers and indigenous communities, are particularly vulnerable to food insecurity due to limited access to resources and decision-making processes. Quick-fix solutions may provide temporary relief, but without addressing these systemic issues, vulnerable communities will remain trapped in a cycle of poverty and food insecurity.

Meanwhile, Nepal's integrated school feeding programme serves as an inspiring example of combining agriculture, education, and food security. By providing nutritious meals to approximately 3.3 million children, the programme has not only improved enrollment and attendance rates but also enhanced learning outcomes. This multi-sectoral approach showcases the potential benefits of investing in initiatives that address food security, education, and health simultaneously. However, the sustainability of such programmes is a valid concern. Relying solely on increased budgets without long-term commitment and coherent policies may lead to fluctuations in support, jeopardising the progress made. To ensure the continuity and effectiveness of such initiatives, continuous investment and dedication from the government and international partners are essential.

Furthermore, while focusing on transforming food systems to achieve sustainable development goals is commendable, it is crucial to avoid potential unintended consequences. Narrowly focusing on increasing agricultural productivity may neglect environmental sustainability and social equity concerns. Balancing productivity with environmental conservation and social justice is essential to ensure a sustainable and just food system. The UN Food Systems Summit +2 Stocktaking Moment has spurred global ambitions to combat food insecurity and transform food systems. To turn these aspirations into tangible results, concrete action plans, accountability mechanisms, and measurable targets are crucial. Addressing food insecurity in LDCs requires genuine commitment from all stakeholders, systemic changes, and sufficient financial support to ensure lasting progress and food security for vulnerable communities.