Clarion Olusegun
In commemoration of World Food Day 2024, Azeez Salawu, Founder of CAFS Africa, urged all global leaders to take decisive actions to reform current food systems, ensuring that every individual has access to safe, nutritious, and sustainably produced food.
According to him, the theme of this year’s event, “Right to Food: For a Better Life and a Better Future,” emphasizes that food security is not only a fundamental human right but also a cornerstone for global development, stability, and well-being.
He said in his address to mark this year’s celebration: “The time for incremental change has passed. What we need now are bold, transformative decisions from world leaders.”
He stressed that millions of people continue to face hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity, challenges that are being worsened by climate change, conflicts, economic instability, and outdated agricultural practices.
Salawu issued a strong call to action, urging world leaders to prioritize five key areas while highlighting the importance of governments investment in sustainable agricultural practices that protect the environment and ensure long-term resilient climate change.
“Supporting farmers with the tools, knowledge, and technology they need to adapt is crucial for long-term food security. The youth are the future of our food systems,” he added.
He emphasised the need for empowering young farmers and entrepreneurs through education, innovation, and access to capital, which would unlock sustainable solutions for a more equitable food system.
Salawu further called for stronger global partnerships between governments, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations to promote food sovereignty and fair trade.
“Achieving food security requires collaboration on a global scale,” he said.
He also asserted that policies must be inclusive, ensuring that marginalized communities, such as women, smallholder farmers, and indigenous groups have a voice in shaping the future of food systems.
Salawu stressed that the right to food is a basic human right, and world leaders must commit to ending hunger and malnutrition.
His wires: “It is time for world leaders to implement strategies that increase access to nutritious food, reduce food waste, and improve food distribution.”
Salawu concluded by underscoring the importance of collective action in transforming global food systems.
“Our actions today will determine the future of food security for generations to come.
“World leaders must rise to the occasion and make bold decisions that will pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for all”, he stated.
He urged individuals, organizations, and nations to work together to create a sustainable and inclusive food system where no one is left behind.