Mauritania celebrated World Food Day on October 26, 2026, under the theme "Innovate Today, Food for Tomorrow." The event was attended by Ahmed Salem Ould Arab, Secretary General of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty, in Nouakchott. The Secretary General emphasized the importance of this day to renew commitment to enhancing food security and developing agricultural and food systems. He highlighted the challenges posed by international crises and climate change.
Ould Arab noted that innovation is a cornerstone for developing the agricultural sector, extending beyond improving production means to include various stages of the food system. This includes storage, transportation, distribution, and marketing, combining scientific and technological advancements with local knowledge and producer expertise. The Secretary General reviewed government efforts to promote food sovereignty by supporting local production, reclaiming agricultural land, and developing infrastructure.
The government has made significant progress in the rice sector through public investments and private sector contributions. Ould Arab stressed the need to expand the use of agricultural mechanization, develop improved seeds, and adapt to climate conditions. He also emphasized the importance of digital tools and modern technologies in improving productivity, along with enhancing training and agricultural guidance to increase production efficiency.
The Secretary General praised the cooperation between the Ministry and its development partners, particularly the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. He called for continued support for programs and initiatives aimed at modernizing the agricultural sector, improving production conditions, and enhancing producer capacities. The event was attended by the Resident Representative of the United Nations system in Mauritania and several partners.
The celebration of World Food Day in Mauritania highlights the country's commitment to addressing food security challenges. The government has implemented various initiatives to improve agricultural productivity and enhance food availability. These efforts aim to achieve self-sufficiency in food production and reduce reliance on imports.
The theme of this year's World Food Day, "Innovate Today, Food for Tomorrow," emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to ensure future food security. The event in Mauritania showcased the importance of innovation in the agricultural sector and its potential to improve food production and availability.
The Mauritanian government's efforts to promote food sovereignty and improve agricultural productivity are crucial in addressing the country's food security challenges. The celebration of World Food Day serves as a reminder of the need for continued commitment and cooperation to achieve sustainable food security and improve the livelihoods of Mauritanian citizens.
Key points
- The Mauritanian government is promoting food sovereignty through support for local production and agricultural development.
