Egypt has hosted a pivotal regional workshop organized by the World Bank, focusing on “Reassessing Food Security and Nutrition in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).” The event, held in Cairo, brought together representatives from 12 countries, underscoring Egypt’s central role in addressing regional food security challenges.
Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, inaugurated the workshop, highlighting the nation’s commitment to enhancing food security through strategic partnerships and investments. She emphasized the importance of building resilient national food systems capable of withstanding global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts.(egypttoday.com)
The workshop aimed to provide policymakers with data-driven insights and actionable recommendations to strengthen food systems across the MENA region. Collaborating with the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), the World Bank seeks to develop comprehensive strategies that address the unique challenges faced by MENA countries in achieving sustainable food security.
Dr. Al-Mashat reiterated Egypt’s dedication to fostering trilateral cooperation with international and regional partners to drive progress in food security initiatives. She noted that the workshop’s discussions align with Egypt’s broader development goals, including the implementation of the Nexus of Water, Food, and Energy (NWFE) program, which integrates climate resilience into food security efforts.
The event also featured the launch of the Climate Adaptation Innovation Accelerator Programme (CAIAP), a joint initiative between Egypt and the World Food Programme (WFP). This program aims to support and scale up climate-smart agricultural innovations, empowering local startups and entrepreneurs to contribute to sustainable food systems.
Al-Mashat concluded by reaffirming Egypt’s commitment to achieving food security as a national priority, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. She called for continued collaboration among governments, international organizations, and the private sector to build resilient food systems that can withstand future challenges.
The workshop marks a significant step in regional efforts to address food security and nutrition, reflecting Egypt’s proactive approach to tackling pressing development issues through international cooperation.(dailynewsegypt.com)
