New York - 24 September 2024 - The Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) participated in the hybrid event of the Science Summit during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, "Collaborative Solutions: Funding the UNCCD COP16 Flagship Initiative for Food Security and Sustainable Development" held in New York City. This milestone event was co-organized by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), the Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND), the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), and the Innovation Commission for Climate Change, Food Security, and Agriculture.
The event was commenced with opening remarks from a distinguished panel, including H.E. Josefa Sacko, AU Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment, Executive Secretary of UNCCD Dr. Ibrahim Thiaw, Chair of BADEA’s Board, Dr. Fahad Aldossari, His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Aziz bin Talal bin Abdul Aziz, President of AGFUND and Nobel Laureate Professor Michael Kremer. All were unanimous in their call for collaboration and for the global community to amplify its voice on the challenges posed by climate change and desertification.
The Director General of IOFS, H.E. Ambassador Berik Aryn, addressed the gathering with a video message, emphasizing the critical role of science and innovation in achieving food security, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate change. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak at this important event, underscoring the necessity of advances in agricultural technologies and sustainable resource management. “Food security is deeply interconnected with sustainable development and climate resilience,” he stated.
The IOFS reaffirmed its dedication to addressing challenges related to desertification and land degradation through its "Climate Impact/Resource Management" program, aligned with Strategic Vision 2031. This initiative focuses on three key goals:
- Combating Desertification and Drought: Implementing eco-friendly irrigation technologies.
- Preserving Agricultural Ecosystems: Maximizing the use of natural resources sustainably.
- Cutting Agricultural Emissions: Promoting organic and smart farming practices.
The Director General also highlighted recent initiatives, including a training event on biotechnology for sustainable farming, which emphasized innovative solutions like biochar to enhance soil health.
As discussions progressed, the IOFS stressed the importance of keeping food security central to global dialogues on climate action and sustainable development. We are committed to fostering collaborative efforts to pave the way for tangible solutions to combat food insecurity and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
In conclusion, the IOFS calls on governments, the private sector, and philanthropic organizations to join this crucial initiative. Together, we can build a future where food security is not just an aspiration, but a reality for all.
It should be noted, the Director General shared the panel with other distinguished food security stakeholders, including H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of the Public Investment Fund, H.E. Madalitso Wirima Kambauwa, Minister of Malawi, H.E. Monique Barbut, Special Envoy to President Macron of France and H.E. Cem Ozdemir Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture of Germany, among others.
