As Pakistan prepares to observe World Food Day, the nation is grappling with pressing challenges of food insecurity and malnutrition, a situation gravely worsened by climate shocks, devastating floods, and high food prices, according to a message from the President Asif Ali Zardari. The statement highlights that an excessive number of families are struggling to afford a healthy diet, with children bearing the brunt of undernutrition.

The presidential message was issued ahead of the global observance on October 16, which has been recognized since 1979 to emphasize the need to end hunger. This year”s theme, ‘Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,’ calls for unified cooperation between governments, farmers, communities, and development partners to build a food-secure world.

Despite agriculture serving as the backbone of the national economy and providing a livelihood for millions, significant difficulties in ensuring adequate nutrition persist across the country.

In response, the Government of Pakistan, through the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, is collaborating with provincial authorities, international organizations, and the private sector. Key strategies include the promotion of climate-smart farming, improved water and land management, the strengthening of food supply chains, and the implementation of social protection programs for vulnerable populations. Relief efforts for flood-affected families, initiatives to reduce food waste, and programs aimed at boosting agricultural productivity are central to these endeavors.

On this World Food Day, Pakistan reaffirms its determination to work cooperatively with all stakeholders. The President’s message stressed that food security is a shared responsibility, not just a governmental duty, and concluded with a call for collective action to ensure no child goes to bed hungry and every family has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food for a better national future.