1311. Gaining Momentum for Food Systems Transformation

In her closing remarks at the UN Food Systems Summit +4 (UNFSS+4) held in Addis Ababa on July 29, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed lauded the growing momentum for food systems transformation.

At the same time, she warned that with just five years to go until 2030, hunger and malnutrition remain, and climate change, conflict, debt, and inequality are widening cracks in our system. She emphasized that food systems must be the solution for people, planet, peace, and prosperity.

The UN Food Systems Summit process, launched in 2021 in the midst of the global pandemic, aims to catalyze national and global action to make food systems more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The 2025 stocktake brought together more than 3,000 participants from governments, civil society organizations, Indigenous Peoples, youth representatives, and private sector stakeholders to assess progress and renew commitments. To date, more than 130 countries, with the support of UN agencies and development partners, have developed national pathways for food system transformation.

In her speech, Mohammed highlighted several areas of progress and called for urgent and concerted action.

• Food systems as climate solutions: “Food and agriculture are now part of the climate plans of 168 countries,” she said, noting their potential to reduce emissions and build resilience.
• School meals as a strategic investment: Over 170 countries are implementing school meal programmes. These are not just meals – they are investments in children, our farmers, and the future.
• Cities driving innovation: Urban centres are leading efforts to reduce food waste and strengthen local supply chains. Cities are showing what innovation looks like on the ground.
• Inclusion is essential: Ms. Mohammed called for inclusion of youth, Indigenous Peoples, women, and marginalized communities. “These are powerful commitments to transform food systems for people and the planet that you have helped inspire."
• Financing must match ambition: She urged donors and development banks to align investments with national pathways.  

Contributor: IIYAMA Miyuki, Information Program