The Sudan: Government of the Sudan and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations call for water action on World Food Day
16 October 2023, Khartoum – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) joins the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests in celebrating World Food Day 2023 to highlight the significant role of water as the essence of life on earth, the increasing pressure put on water resources and the collective action to be taken to preserve and manage water.
Each year the world celebrates World Food Day to commemorate the founding of FAO in 1945. The collective action across 150 countries worldwide, in up to 50 languages, is what makes World Food Day one of the most celebrated days of the UN calendar. Hundreds of events and outreach activities bring together governments, businesses, civil society organizations, media, as well as the public and youth. They promote worldwide awareness on hunger and promote action for the future of food, people and the planet.
This year, World Food Day is observed globally, and in the Sudan, under the theme "Water is life, water is food. Leave no one behind". The day highlights the massive impact of conflict and climate shocks, including erratic rainfall and rising temperature, on access to food and water as well as food production and availability.
“With the double threat of conflict and climate shocks, it is our duty to ensure we use water wisely, distribute it equally, and preserve aquatic food systems,” said Hongjie Yang, FAO Representative in the Sudan. “When we do this, we ensure no one is left behind.”
The World Food Day also emphasizes that collective action is needed to address global water challenges. As farmers, governments, humanitarians, private sector, civil society and individuals – in the face of this conflict and growing humanitarian needs – we need to work together to address people’s acute lack of access to food and water.
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