Transforming Global Agrifood Systems: Highlights from the World Food Forum 2024

The World Food Forum (WFF) 2024 concluded in Rome, marking the end of an impactful week dedicated to driving transformative change in global agrifood systems. The event brought together thousands of participants from around the world, including youth, farmers, policymakers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and indigenous communities, all committed to addressing the urgent challenges of hunger, climate change, and inequality.

Empowering Collaboration and Innovation for a Sustainable Future

Mobilizing Youth for Agrifood Systems Transformation

The World Food Forum 2024 was a resounding success, with young leaders taking center stage and launching the first-ever Global Youth Action Plan. This roadmap outlines a clear path for driving impact and shaping the future of food. The Youth Innovation Lab recognized and rewarded young researchers and entrepreneurs, fostering out-of-the-box solutions to address agrifood challenges. Youth from 25 WFF National Chapters led initiatives to build momentum for change at all levels, demonstrating the power of intergenerational collaboration.

Advancing Science, Technology, and Innovation

The FAO Science and Innovation Forum showcased groundbreaking advancements in biotechnologies, digital technologies, and community-led initiatives. It emphasized the importance of closing the science, technology, and innovation gap in low- and middle-income countries, ensuring that everyone benefits from progress. The forum highlighted the exponential potential of these innovations to transform agrifood systems and drive sustainable development.

Mobilizing Investments for Sustainable Agrifood Systems

The Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum facilitated partnerships and mobilized investments in sustainable agrifood systems. With 29 countries and 5 regional initiatives presenting investment plans and opportunities, a total of 115 investments were showcased, designed for over 120 million beneficiaries. The newly launched Investor Networking Lounge fostered collaboration between investors, governments, and the private sector, paving the way for impactful investments.

Empowering Family Farmers and Indigenous Food Systems

The Global Family Farming Forum celebrated the midpoint of the UN Decade of Family Farming, bringing together thousands of participants to share experiences and identify concrete policy solutions to support family farmers. The event amplified the crucial role of family farmers in agrifood systems transformation. The Global Hub on Indigenous Peoples' Food Systems meeting highlighted the vital role of indigenous knowledge in promoting sustainable agriculture and preserving biodiversity.

Addressing Water Scarcity in Agriculture

The Rome Water Dialogue focused on integrated water resource management and its impact on agrifood systems. Participants adopted the Rome Declaration on Water Scarcity in Agriculture, enhancing collaboration and mobilizing commitments to address water scarcity challenges. This dialogue underscored the urgent need to develop sustainable water management strategies to ensure food security and environmental resilience.

Celebrating World Food Day and the Future of FAO

World Food Day, celebrated under the theme "Right to Foods, for a better life and a better future," served as a powerful reminder of the fundamental right to food. Global leaders, including FAO Director-General QU Dongyu, FAO Nutrition Ambassador King Letsie III of Lesotho, Pope Francis, and the UN Secretary-General, lent their voices to this urgent cause. The event also featured the unveiling of the logo for the Food and Agriculture Museum & Network, set to open in Rome on World Food Day 2025, and the launch of FAO's "80-1 Anniversary Countdown," a year-long celebration leading up to FAO's 80th anniversary.The World Food Forum 2024 concluded with a renewed sense of urgency and commitment to action, paving the way for the next World Food Forum in 2025. The event has reaffirmed the vital role of diverse stakeholders, including youth, women, and indigenous communities, in shaping the future of global agrifood systems and ensuring access to safe, nutritious, and sustainable food for all.