Hosted by the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in association with the Italian Government, the UNFSS+4 Summit has commenced by empowering youth to become active participants in the agricultural sector.
H.E. Dr. Ergogie Tesfaye, Minister of Women and Social Affairs of Ethiopia, mentioned that Ethiopia is ensuring food security and creating vast employment opportunities in the agricultural sector. Through the Lemat Terufat Program, which is also part of the Green Legacy Initiative, youth are being actively involved in economic sectors that promote food security and are benefiting from these opportunities.
Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Amina J. Mohammed, stated that both natural and man-made disasters are putting immense pressure on the world’s food systems. She stressed the need to strengthen cooperation in order to address these challenges and achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals as well as Africa’s Agenda 2063. According to Ms. Amina, strengthening partnerships, changing narratives, and creating enabling environments for youth entrepreneurship are key drivers for sustainable change in the global food system.
General Coordinator of the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa, Dr. Million Belay, emphasized during the UN Food Systems Summit that Ethiopia should not always be referred to as the country where food is a persistent issue. Dr. Belay stated, “We need to change not only by participating in Africa but also globally. Food is not only nourishment for our bodies; it is a language that connects the world. Food is a culture we speak through. It is a magnificent tool that helps us connect with others.”
The UN Food Systems Summit brings together representatives of international development organizations, policymakers, senior government officials, and young leaders to address key issues that ensure a sustainable food system. The summit will continue until July 29, 2025.
Ermias Tilahun | Correspondent | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
