Beirut: The Ministry of Agriculture, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the World Food Programme (WFP) jointly organized a ceremony to mark World Food Day 2025, FAO's 80th anniversary, and the International Day of Rural Women. The event was hosted at the Order of Engineers and Architects in Beirut, in the presence of H.E. Nizar Hani, Minister of Agriculture.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, H.E. Nizar Hani, Minister of Agriculture of Lebanon, congratulated the FAO on its 80th anniversary, expressing gratitude for its role in supporting agricultural development in Lebanon. He highlighted the collaboration with the World Food Programme, other international organizations, and partners such as the Order of Engineers in advancing the agricultural sector.
He mentioned the authorization of the agricultural prescription system to regulate the use of pesticides and fertilizers, ensuring safety and sustainability. The Minister emphasized the importance of building capacities of agricultural engineers and farmers, working towards a modern agriculture that is climate-smart and resource-preserving. He also praised rural working women and farmers for their resilience amidst challenges like climate change and low rainfall, announcing that the establishment of the National Food Safety Authority is nearing completion.
Louis Lahoud, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture, also congratulated the FAO and highlighted the significance of the International Day of Rural Women. On the occasion of World Food Day, he stressed the need to strengthen food security and ensure food safety.
Nora Ourabah Haddad, FAO Representative in Lebanon, remarked on the collective responsibility to ensure food security and nutrition. She acknowledged the roles of rural women in building a sustainable future and emphasized the ongoing collaboration with partners to support public institutions and farming communities in Lebanon.
Matthew Hollingworth, WFP Lebanon Representative and Country Director, reflected on the shared mission with FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture to strengthen Lebanon's food system and ensure no one is left behind in achieving food security.
Fadi Hanna, President of the Order of Engineers and Architects, underscored the role of engineers in sustainable development and enhancing food security through infrastructure and resource management.
The event included a panel discussion on women's collective action, featuring rural women sharing their experiences in enhancing market access, generating income, and building community resilience. The gathering highlighted the importance of collective efforts to achieve food security and recognized the essential contributions of rural women in agriculture.