Media text on food security from October 9, 2023
The LED contribution to achieving SDG 2 “Zero Hunger”
A massive deterioration in economic and political conditions – particularly for the poorest population groups in sub-Saharan Africa – threatens to reverse the progress made in recent years towards achieving SDG 2. The Liechtenstein Development Service (LED) is working with partner organizations to halt this negative trend.
(Schaan, October 9, 2023) More than a third of all people suffering from hunger or malnutrition live in Africa. It is therefore no coincidence that more than 50% of LED funds flow into more than 20 projects in Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Senegal, Mali and Burkina Faso. SDG 2 – “Zero Hunger” is a central concern of LED as a bilateral donor of Liechtenstein. “With this focus, we are increasingly strengthening local actors (smallholder farmers, advisors, governments) and thus accelerating the transition to sustainable food systems with a focus on agroecology (AÖ). Even as a small organization, we can achieve a lot in close cooperation with partners,” summarizes LED Managing Director Andreas Sicks.
Barren floors instead of full supermarket shelves
The majority of the rural population in sub-Saharan Africa has little access to knowledge on how to practice productive, sustainable agriculture with limited resources. Farmers sow on less fertile, degraded soils, with unsuitable seeds and fertilizers, a lack of irrigation and often without know-how about “best practices” when choosing their cultivation methods and the proper storage of the harvest. In this situation, Liechtenstein’s support can make a tangible difference. Be it by offering local actors and small farmers qualified, practical advice on site for their entire value chain, this also includes practical measures such as the provision of high-quality seeds and tools if required. Liechtenstein’s commitment also helps to improve political and structural framework conditions, e.g. access to sales markets, and enables agricultural universities and schools to carry out research projects independently and offer students tailor-made curricula and training modules.
Agroecology as a compass for good agriculture
AÖ is not only science, but also a practical method. It is the compass for a transformation towards sustainable food systems. AÖ systems produce high yields overall while protecting the environment and conserving resources. They enable healthier products and higher incomes, create fair framework conditions and include biodiversity and animal welfare. The organic approach also requires an intensive transfer of knowledge and strong networking both among local producers and with other market participants. This is why the LED also supports selected regional agroecology conferences.
Contact for the media: Alexandra Ospelt, +423 222 09 79
