Amman:Her Royal Highness Princess Basma bint Talal has emphasized the importance of innovation in strengthening food security during a World Food Day 2026 event. As the President of the National Alliance Against Hunger and Malnutrition (NAJMAH), Princess Basma highlighted the dual nature of World Food Day as both a beacon of hope and a call to action for rethinking food production, transportation, and distribution.
According to Jordan News Agency, Princess Basma spoke passionately about the necessity of leveraging innovation to enhance access to opportunities, healthier diets, and more stable livelihoods. She underscored the need to invest equally in people and technology while safeguarding the natural resources vital to food systems.
The Princess also addressed the paradox of global hunger, where despite adequate food production, millions still suffer. She stressed that hunger is a consequence of choices and resource management. Furthermore, she pointed out that innovation must extend beyond technology to incorporate traditional knowledge and community wisdom, particularly in rural areas where women farmers need access to affordable, drought-resistant seeds.
Agriculture Minister Saeb Khreisat’s representative, Ministry Secretary-General Mohammad Hayari, reiterated Jordan's commitment to modernizing its agricultural sector through innovation, technology, and partnerships. He detailed national strategies to enhance food security, including the establishment of the Higher Council for Food Security and the creation of a national food security information management system.
Hayari highlighted Jordan's improved ranking in the 2026 Global Hunger Index and significant growth in the agricultural sector, with a notable increase in agricultural exports and self-sufficiency. He also announced the launch of Jordan's first national food waste index to promote responsible consumption.
FAO Representative Thair Yassin recognized Jordan's resilience in managing limited water resources and its progress in reducing undernourishment and obesity rates. Yassin noted that FAO’s programs in Jordan are aligned with the Economic Modernization Vision (EMV), underscoring the importance of innovation in building sustainable food systems globally.
The event, featuring a World Food Day Innovation Exhibition and a drawing competition for students, showcased various solutions aimed at enhancing the sustainability and resilience of agricultural and food systems in Jordan. The event was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and other national partners.
Source Jordan News Agency