World Food Day which is celebrated annually on the 16th of October is a global observance established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. It aims to raise awareness about the critical issue of food security and to promote efforts to end hunger and malnutrition worldwide. This day also commemorates the founding of the FAO in 1945, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to eradicating global hunger.
Food is a fundamental necessity of life. It sustains us, provides the energy and nutrients needed for growth and development, and is a source of joy and culture. Beyond that, food is deeply interconnected with our environment, economy, and social well-being. Food security is crucial for maintaining stability and peace within and among nations. It is not merely about having enough to eat but also having access to safe, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food. When food security is compromised, it can lead to conflict, migration, and poverty.
Despite advances in agriculture, millions of people around the world still suffer from hunger. In 2021, an estimated 9.9% of the global population was undernourished. About one-third of all food produced globally is lost or wasted, contributing to both hunger and environmental problems. Water is essential for food production. Agriculture accounts for around 70% of global freshwater withdrawals, highlighting the critical link between water and food security.
The theme for this year’s World Food Day, “Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind,” underscores the vital role of water in our lives and its direct connection to food. Access to clean water is a basic human right, and it is essential for agriculture, sanitation, and overall well-being. Water scarcity and pollution threaten food production and can exacerbate hunger and poverty. By highlighting this theme, World Food Day aims to draw attention to the importance of sustainable water management to ensure food security for all.
We celebrate World Food Day to remind ourselves of the urgent need to address global hunger and malnutrition. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the importance of food, appreciate the efforts of farmers, and support initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture and food systems. It is a day to recognize that food is not just a basic need but a cornerstone of human survival and prosperity. It’s a call to action to ensure that no one goes to bed hungry and that we protect the resources, like water, that sustain our food supply. As we mark World Food Day this year, let us remember that food is life, and water is at its heart. Together, we can work towards a world where everyone has enough to eat, and no one is left behind.
Written By: –
Rtr. Sandhiya Selvaraj
(Blog Team Member 2023-24)
