World Food Day 2023

World Food Day on 16 October is a reminder of the critical need to address food security. The global population is increasing rapidly. By 2050, it will have reached an estimated 9.7 billion people. Climate uncertainties are worsening, affecting food production. Against these challenges, we must ensure that everyone has access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food.  

It is estimated that around 690 million people suffer from hunger or undernourishment. This is almost 10% of the global population. Sustainable Development Goals like SDG 2, Zero Hunger, aim to address this global challenge. But with many people going hungry, more must be done. 

The issue of food security is multifaceted. But one essential element for safeguarding food security is knowledge. This blog looks at five reasons why information is crucial. We look at how food security affects smallholder farmers in developing countries. And we consider how knowledge helps both farmers and the dedicated individuals and organizations supporting them. 

Sustainable farming to safeguard food security 

Smallholder farmers often operate with limited resources. However, they are the backbone of food production in many developing nations. There are an estimated 500 million smallholder farmers worldwide. And they are responsible for producing around 60% of the world’s food. However, many of them suffer from food insecurity themselves. This includes problems arising from crop failure, plant pests and diseases and, increasingly, unpredictable conditions due to climate change. It is essential that smallholders be able to enhance their productivity. This means increasing their access to information and knowledge on sustainable farming practices. 

Researchers play a pivotal role in addressing sustainable agriculture. They help to develop the innovative techniques that maximize yields while minimizing resource use. Agricultural advisory services serve as the bridge between research and the farmer. They translate complex findings into actionable advice. Armed with information from resources like the PlantwisePlus Knowledge Bank, they can help smallholders adopt practices that secure their own food supply. But in so doing, they also contribute to long-term food security on a global scale. Knowledge resources on topics such as crop protection, organic farming and water conservation are critical. 

Food security and climate resilient farming 

Climate change and environmental impact pose a severe threat to agriculture. This is particularly the case in regions already vulnerable to extreme weather events. Knowledge about climate-resilient agricultural practices is vital for smallholder farmers. With this knowledge, they can adapt to climate challenges. 

The scientific community can provide an evidence base to help farmers adapt. This includes crop varieties proven to be more drought-tolerant, for example. Or it could include research to concretely address the threat of pests and diseases. Access to weather forecasts and climate data is essential. It allows farmers to make informed decisions about planting and harvesting. This information helps to reduce the risk of crop failure due to unexpected weather events. And this supports global food security. 

Invasive species and the threat to food security 

Invasive species pose a significant threat to food security. They damage plants including food crops. Some non-native pests, like desert locust and fall armyworm, can destroy harvests across entire countries and regions. This leads to reduced agricultural productivity and food scarcity. Information and knowledge about invasive species are crucial for smallholder farmers. It helps them to identify, prevent and manage these pests. 

The research community is making great strides, finding non-chemical solutions to invasive species. Researchers studying invasive species’ behaviour are developing effective control strategies. The research helps advisory services and practitioners reach farmers with advice on early detection. And it also helps them to take appropriate action. Equipping smallholders with information is essential. By doing this, they can mitigate the impact of invasive species on food crops and safeguard food security. 

A One Health Approach to address food security 

The concept of One Health recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental or plant health. It emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to address health challenges. And this is important for food security, as well as nutrition security. For example, zoonotic diseases can impact both animals and humans. (Diseases that affect humans can also affect livestock and food production). Plant diseases can destroy vegetable crops. This can have a knock-on effect on human access to nutrition and nutrition security. 

One Health is vital for food security. The health of animals and ecosystems directly impacts food production. One Health knowledge sharing can play a critical role in supporting food security. Adopting a One Health approach can reduce the risk of disease outbreaks among animals and plants. And this helps to ensure a more secure food supply. 

Solving food security with knowledge and information 

Information and knowledge are critical for solving food security. They are indispensable tools for smallholder farmers in low- and middle-income countries. But they are also essential for the dedicated individuals and organizations that support them. Above are just a few examples of how information and knowledge can empower smallholders. It can help them to overcome obstacles and improve their food security. 

Researchers, practitioners and agricultural advisory services play crucial roles. They help to curate and disseminate this knowledge. To do this, they need access to accurate and reliable the knowledge resources. On World Food Day, we must recognize the importance of knowledge as a catalyst for change. Information can ensure a more food-secure future for all.