26-27 November 2024. Abu Dhabi. The Global Food Security Summit (GFSS) is one of the largest scientific gatherings in the MENA region. It explored innovative, sustainable, and profitable approaches, including the use of Artificial Intelligence in agriculture.
Held under the theme “Together, for Humanity,” GFSS is part of the 3rd Global Food Week (GFW) and promotes global collaboration and innovation to create sustainable solutions for food security. The Summit brought together high-ranking officials, experts and scientists from around the world, and representatives from more than 70 countries, including 21 ministers.
Africa, where one in five people is affected by hunger, remains particularly vulnerable and requires intensified efforts to combat food insecurity. The inaugural Global Food Security Summit in Abu Dhabi provides a platform for the international community to discuss these challenges and identify opportunities to enhance food security. Kayan Akram Jaff, Head of Mission of the FAO Subregional Office for GCC states and Yemen
The Global Food Security Summit in Abu Dhabi is an important platform for all Member States to coordinate their efforts to develop plans and pathways for sustainable food production that will benefit not only Africa, but the entire world. Berik Aryn, Director General of the Islamic Organization for Food Security
Adj. Prof. Dr. Hildegard Lingnau, Executive Secretary of GFAR, emphasized the vital role of global cooperation in addressing agricultural challenges at the Global Food Security Summit. Her insights on fostering cross-sector collaboration, learning from diverse experiences, and drawing inspiration from innovative food producers underscore the importance of shared efforts in building sustainable and resilient food systems.
The summit shed light on critical issues
- Global Hunger: Over 733 million people suffer from hunger worldwide, posing a threat to peace, stability, and human dignity
- Islamic World’s Progress: The Islamic Organisation for Food Security highlighted governance, sustainability, and resource mobilisation initiatives across its 41 member countries, emphasising the significance of a dedicated Food Security Day for the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)
- Focus on Africa: The summit discussed sustainable agri-food systems and highlighted progress in West Africa, where 73 percent of farming households improved their resilience to climate shocks
Key Themes and Recommendations
Sustainability as a Cornerstone: Participants emphasised sustainability as essential for achieving food security, advocating for efficient resource use, renewable energy in agriculture, and fostering value-added food production- Women's Empowerment: The importance of enhancing women's roles in agriculture was highlighted, recognising their contributions to economic growth and sustainability
- Clean Energy Transition: Despite the challenges posed by greenhouse gas emissions, the summit called for adopting clean energy solutions, proposing a six-pillar framework encompassing inclusivity, incentives, data, investments, institutions, and innovation
- Innovative Solutions for a Growing Population: The summit stressed the need to invest in advanced agricultural technologies and sustainable practices to ensure reliable food supplies and a better future for coming generations. It called for enhanced cooperation along food value chains to address global crises effectively
- Global Call to Action: The summit urged immediate and unified international efforts to create a resilient, equitable global food system, ensuring access to healthy and sustainable food for all
- Spotlight on the UAE: The UAE National Food Security Strategy 2051 was praised for its alignment with global goals, supported by initiatives like the "Nema" platform, which combats food waste and promotes sustainable consumption practices. The summit also acknowledged the UAE’s leadership role at COP28, where the nation advanced its vision of eliminating food waste and transforming traditional food systems.
26/11 Panel Discussion: UAE’s High-Impact Projects for a Resilient Food System
- Fatima Al Dhaheri, Head of the AGWA Cluster - Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)
- Seifallah Rabie, Partner and UAE Managing Partner - LOGIC Consulting
- Suresh Vaidyanathan, CEO Special Projects - Ghassan Aboud Group & CEO -Abu Dhabi Food Hub
- Hassan Halawy, General Manager - Elite Agro Projects
- Mohamed Al Breiki, Executive Director, Sustainable Development - Masdar City
The Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition
In addition to the Global Food Security Summit, Global Food Week features various internationalevents and exhibitions highlighting the latest innovations and technologies. The Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE) marked a 49 per cent growth in its 3rd edition compared to the previous year, attracting over 660 exhibitors and 1,900 companies and brands from 70 countries. The event also hosted around 270 key hosted buyers from local and international markets. The event also included the launch of the Abu Dhabi Coffee Hub, a signature feature of Global Food Week. The platform brings together specialists, traders, and coffee enthusiasts from around the world, reflecting the growing global interest in food security and sustainability.