#GlobalFoodSecuritySummit

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UK Pioneers Global Food Security Solutions

  Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to Announce Groundbreaking Initiative

In a major step toward addressing global food challenges, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to unveil a groundbreaking initiative at the Global Food Security Summit in London on Monday, November 20th. The initiative includes the launch of a new science centre dedicated to developing climate-resilient crops and combatting severe child malnutrition.   International Collaboration at the Heart of New Science Centre The newly announced science hub, led by CGIAR, a global research partnership uniting organizations focused on food security, aims to enhance global food systems' resilience in the face of climate change. This virtual center will foster collaboration between UK scientists and international research initiatives, focusing on the development of crops that can withstand climate change impacts and are more disease-resistant.  

UK's Long-Term Approach to Global Food Challenges

The unveiling of the International Development White Paper, also expected at the summit, outlines the UK's new long-term approach to global food challenges. Going beyond traditional aid measures, the White Paper emphasizes collaboration with countries to tackle extreme poverty and climate change, addressing the root causes of food insecurity.   Addressing Global Drivers of Food Insecurity The White Paper identifies climate change, conflict, the lingering effects of COVID-19, and Russia's invasion of Ukraine as the primary drivers of current food insecurity. Notably, the UK played a leading role in ensuring Ukraine's ability to continue agricultural exports, critical for global food security.  

Priorities Outlined in the White Paper

Prime Minister Sunak emphasizes the need to address unseen causes of global food insecurity. The White Paper's priorities include mobilizing international finance, reforming the international system, promoting innovation, and prioritizing women and girls, ensuring equal opportunities for all.   Innovative Partnerships to Combat Child Malnutrition International Development Minister Andrew Mitchell underscores the importance of combating child malnutrition. The UK, along with its partners, will launch the UK International Development White Paper, focusing on preventing and treating child wasting through innovative partnerships and financing.  

Tackling Malnutrition Globally

The UK, in collaboration with CGIAR, has contributed to the development of flood-tolerant rice, disease-resistant wheat, and nutrient-rich sweet potatoes. The UK is releasing up to £100 million in humanitarian funding to address food insecurity in countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Afghanistan, and those affected by climate-related events.   UK Support for Child Nutrition Fund At the summit, Prime Minister Sunak announced increased support for the Child Nutrition Fund. This funding will scale up efforts in breastfeeding, infant feeding, healthcare, and monitoring to address and prevent severe child malnutrition. The UK's support will match the investments of severely affected countries, ensuring a more reliable supply of critical food for young children. As the Global Food Security Summit unfolds, the UK's commitment to long-term solutions for global food challenges takes center stage, marking a significant step toward a healthier, more secure, and prosperous world.   Sources: THX News, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, The Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, & The Rt Hon Andrew Mitchell MP. Read the full article