WFP, CARD collaborate on food security efforts to address critical issues

OUK Rabun, Senior Minister and chairman of the Council for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD), praised the World Food Programme (WFP) for its ongoing support and collaboration with the council in enhancing food security and nutrition in Cambodia.

Rabun, who also chairs the One Village, One Product (OVOP) National Committee, met WFP country director Claire Conan in Phnom Penh on January 16.

According to the CARD general secretariat, Conan highlighted Cambodia’s advancements, notably in the realms of food and nutrition. She attributed the achievements to the effective leadership and coordination of the council.

She described WFP’s Cambodia Country Strategic Plan (CSP) for 2024-28 as aligning with the initial phase of the government’s Pentagonal Strategy, and sought Rabun’s support for the plan.

“The WFP in Cambodia has undertaken various initiatives, including promoting healthy diets and eating habits, contributing to the development of the Third National Strategy for Food Security and Nutrition, incorporating micronutrients into food and adapting the food system to climate change,” Conan was quoted as saying.

Rabun acknowledged WFP’s consistent support and cooperation with CARD on food security and nutrition in Cambodia.

“We are also grateful to [Conan] for presenting WFP’s … plan, which I wholeheartedly endorse,” he said.

He requested the programme’s continued assistance in the development, implementation and evaluation of the third national food security and nutrition strategy, aiming to contribute to the success of the Pentagonal Strategy.

The Kingdom celebrated its 10th National Nutrition Day on November 6, centering on “Strengthening the Food System in the Context of Climate Change”.

On that day, Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasised that the food system and climate change are critical global challenges addressed by the UN to ensure universal food security, nutrition and a healthy diet, while protecting the environment and steering the food system towards sustainable development.

He urged ministries, institutions, civil society organisations (CSOs), the private sector and the public to continue their efforts in strengthening the system.

Manet stressed that the endeavour is vital for reducing poverty and enhancing the quality of life, thereby achieving the country’s sustainable development goals (SDGs) for 2030, particularly aimed at ending hunger, securing food availability, improving nutrition and promoting sustainable agriculture.*