Baadaran:The Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP), organized a World Food Day 2026 event at Beit al-Dayaa in Baadaran, Chouf. The celebration was attended by Agriculture Minister Nizar Hani, who emphasized the critical role of innovation in agriculture and the importance of investing in land, knowledge, and people for future food security.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the event was held under the theme "Innovation Today… Food for Tomorrow," and gathered a diverse group of participants, including diplomatic representatives, public officials, international organizations, municipalities, unions, agricultural cooperatives, farmers, producers, and rural development partners. The gathering focused on Lebanon's local food heritage and the significance of using modern technologies to boost farmers' incomes, preserve natural resources, and create job opportunities.
Minister Hani, during his address, highlighted the necessity of ensuring access to sufficient, healthy, and safe food for everyone while protecting the land and resources essential for its production. He underscored the importance of rural development in creating jobs for local residents and enhancing the value of agricultural output, allowing residents to remain in their villages. Hani expressed pride in hosting the event in his home village and thanked various organizations and partners for their support.
The minister also addressed the challenges facing farmers in southern Lebanon due to Israeli attacks that have damaged agricultural land and infrastructure. He emphasized the ministry's commitment to restoring agriculture in the south and helping farmers maintain their livelihoods. Additionally, Hani discussed his efforts to open new markets for Lebanese agricultural products and to improve compliance with quality and food safety standards.
Hani concluded by linking innovation to farmers' everyday needs, such as increasing yields with less water and reducing food waste. He stressed that securing future food supply depends on current investments in agriculture, describing it as the lifeblood of the land and life itself.
