Regional Priority 2: Food security and healthy diets for all
Overview
Transforming food systems to build resilience in the NENA region
The regional priority programme 2 (RP2) on 'Food security and healthy diets for all' takes a holistic approach to strengthening agrifood systems across the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. This visual framework illustrates how FAO supports each stage of the food supply chain, from inputs to markets, by enhancing key enabling functions such as governance, infrastructure, skills, and technology. At its core, RP2 focuses on creating more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable food systems through targeted actions in nutrition, food safety, food loss and waste, and market development. Together, these interconnected efforts drive healthier diets, stronger livelihoods, and greater resilience to shocks and crises.
How is FAO responding?
Key facts
By 2030, 75 million people will suffer from hunger in the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. (NERC 37)
Due to its heterogeneity, high rates of undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and a notable prevalence of overweight and obesity, known as the triple burden of malnutrition, coexist in NENA. (NERC 37)
In 2023, 44.1 million people in conflict-affected countries were severely food-insecure. (SOFI 2024)
In 2022, one-third of the Arab States population could not afford a healthy diet. (SOFI 2024)
Trade is key to food security in the region – by 2030, the NENA region is projected to meet more than 60 percent of its caloric demand through imported food. (NENA Network of Experts in Agricultural Trade)
Approximately 65 percent of food loss occurs during the harvesting and production stages. Hence, technology emerges as a pivotal tool in mitigating food loss and waste. (RNE Policy Monitoring Bulletin)