The 300 plus sessions at this year’s World Food Forum (WFF) reinforced its core mission – to mobilise global partnerships, investments, and innovation for sustainable agrifood systems and a hunger-free world.
Held at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation HQ in Rome, more than 16,500 delegates explored the latest science, technology, and investment opportunities shaping global food systems.
In his closing address, FAO Director-General, Qu Dongyu, described WFF as “a transformative movement driven by people and guided by the conviction that food is the foundation of our shared future”, and urged participants to “take the inspiration you felt and transform it into progress”.
A key event was the Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum, where projects presented were worth $110 billion (US$17.2 billion) across 31 countries and six regional initiatives, with the potential to benefit 160 million people. The initiative showcased scalable models for sustainable agricultural transformation and cross-sector collaboration.
WFF is based on three core areas – science and innovation, investment, and youth. The Science and Innovation Forum presented breakthroughs in climate-smart agriculture, digital.
The Youth Assembly brought together 1200 young leaders in Rome and tens of thousands online, with $245,000 (US$160,000) awarded to youth-led agrifood innovations.
Side events – the Rome Water Dialogue and the South-South and Triangular Cooperation Ministerial Dialogue – deepened discussions on resource management and international collaboration.
“The World Food Forum is still young, but its impact is undeniable,” Qu said. “Let us move forward with courage, creativity, and solidarity, working hand in hand for better foods and a better future.”
