Thu Oct 17 04:42:42 UTC 2024: ## USAID Highlights Farmer Innovation and Food Security Efforts on World Food Day

**WASHINGTON, D.C.** – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) today issued a statement from Administrator Samantha Power, marking World Food Day and highlighting the agency’s commitment to combating global hunger and strengthening food systems.

Power cited the story of Tanzanian farmer Prakseda Melkior, who, driven by a passion for food production, found a way to reduce her irrigation costs by 70% through solar-powered systems. Melkior’s initiative, supported by a USAID program, underscores the agency’s focus on fostering innovative farming techniques and empowering local communities to create sustainable food solutions.

“Helping farmers like Melkior grow more food is particularly important today,” Power stated, referencing the unprecedented number of food crises facing the world. “More than 175 million people globally face life-threatening food insecurity, fueled by conflicts and climate-driven disasters.”

USAID’s response to this global challenge includes providing over $5 billion in food security assistance to 134 million people in 61 countries this year. This includes emergency food aid in conflict zones like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, and South Sudan.

Beyond immediate relief, the agency emphasizes a long-term strategy to prevent hunger crises. Last month, USAID launched the “Feed the Future Accelerator” – a partnership program focused on Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia. This initiative aims to invest in food systems and strengthen agricultural sectors in these countries, contributing to poverty reduction, improved nutrition, and regional food security.

“We are aligning resources from across the U.S. government, NGOs, foreign governments, and the private sector to advance their progress,” Power stated. “These countries have the potential to become agricultural breadbaskets, not only feeding their own populations but also contributing to the stability of food supply across the African continent.”

As the world observes World Food Day, USAID reaffirms its dedication to combating hunger crises and building a future where everyone has access to sufficient, nutritious, and safe food.

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