World Food Day highlights importance of proper agricultural infrastructure

OTTAWA --  With the theme of this year's World Food Day, "United Against Hunger," the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) calls on policy makers to recognize the importance of investing in agricultural infrastructure. Governments should work with farm organizations to map out a long-term plan for the sustainability of the food sector in Canada and abroad.

October 16 is designated World Food Day by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to draw attention to plight of those living in hunger around the world, most of whom live in rural areas, which as of 2009 surpassed the one billion mark. This increase is partly due to soaring food prices and the financial crisis - all of which should serve as a wake-up call on the consequences of failing to make grassroots development and agriculture a priority.

CFA has been advocating for investment in agriculture worldwide through the International Federation of Agricultural Producers who bring the farmers' voice to major international policy development forums. 

"For farmers, it is absolutely unacceptable and unnecessary that there are one billion people hungry. CFA believes that farmers around the world are capable of meeting the world food needs, but the political will and global coordination to support their efforts are lacking. It should be realized that agriculture is a solution. Investment in agriculture will undoubtedly lead to healthier environments, populations and economies," said Ron Bonnett, CFA President.

"Farmers today have a broader role than simply growing  food," Bonnett added. "They are entrepreneurs who have to find creative ways to market their product and appeal to the ever-changing consumer demands, addressing all environmental, food safety and animal welfare standards. Infrastructure investment to support their various roles will directly lead to increased production. We need to equip farmers will the tools needed to be successful, so they can seize opportunities and grow their business."

More than ever, it is necessary to have a long-term plan for the sector to ensure we can maintain the supply of high-quality, safe, and affordable Canadian food. The CFA launched a National Food Strategy process in February 2010 to develop a mission and long-term strategy for the Canadian food system. Working together with all players along the food chain from primary production, input, distributors, processors, retail and consumers, the NFS is a unique, industry-led project. Once consensus is reached and the final document produced, it will lay out a sustainable plan that can be effectively rolled out by the private sector and governments, working collaboratively.

CFA looks forward to working with all stakeholders in developing a plan that puts the food chain on track towards a sustainable future.

Links: FAO World Food Day petition: www.onebillionhungry.org