Is the world on track to achieve Zero Hunger and end poverty?
Achieving Zero Hunger and ending poverty are two of the most important Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations for the year 2030. Despite progress made in recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a setback in the global efforts to reach these goals. Hunger, poverty, and malnutrition have also worsened due to a slower economy. This all makes it more challenging to achieve SDG 2. To address these global challenges, we need to work together to end poverty and hunger. We basically need commitment from all global stakeholders, countries, and collaboration partners to address the poverty and hunger of the people living on the planet.
Ending poverty
Poverty eradication is one of the most significant global challenges that require collective efforts. We need a collective plan with input from world leaders and diverse role players. It is an ambitious journey that requires commitment from all of us. We need to take responsibility for the needs of our planet to sustain us for generations to come. The 17 SDGs with 169 targets have identified reachable goals we need to achieve by 2030.
A world free of hunger
In a world of enough, too many are still going hungry. Food production and meeting demands will not necessarily address hunger. The cause of poverty must be directly linked to the cause of hunger. Poor people cannot afford food, therefore we have a planet filled with poor and hungry people. A world with zero hunger can positively impact our economies, health, education, equality, and social development. It is a key piece to building a better future for everyone. Hunger severely affects the poorest countries, therefore we need to identify and support the most affected communities. This is the first step in the “right” direction.
Climate-smart agriculture
Climate change is a threat multiplier for hunger. While climate change can be a difficult topic to fully understand, the human impacts are clear and very real. This destroys livelihoods, drives displacement, increases social inequalities, and undermines sustainable development. The Horn of Africa is currently experiencing its worst drought in 40 years. Millions of people go to bed hungry every night as a result of global warming. To address hunger and poverty, we need to embrace Climate Smart Agriculture.
At AGRICOLLEGES International, we recognize the interlinkages among sustainable agriculture. To empower small farmers, promote gender equality, end rural poverty, ensure healthy lifestyles, tackle climate change, and other issues addressed within the set of 17 SDGs. We are an implementation partner in the Orange Knowledge Project with Maastricht School of Management (MSM), Stellenbosch University, and six rural TVET Colleges to address water-smart farming content development in the curriculum offered to students in the future.
Reduce inequality
Reducing inequality is another key factor in achieving zero hunger and ending poverty. AGRICOLLEGES aims to reduce this by providing affordable and accessible education to learners in remote communities. Often, the most remote areas are left behind, as governments lack the funding and capacity to provide education to individuals in these areas. The goal of AGRICOLLEGES International is to reach remote areas and offers sustainable education that helps lift people out of poverty.
We need to find solutions to end hunger and poverty in our instant surroundings. Investment is needed in infrastructure and education, to empower small farmers, and create job opportunities. Investing in sustainable agriculture and Climate Smart Agriculture can also help provide food security, eradicate hunger, and reduce poverty. Additionally, it is essential that we reduce waste, use resources efficiently, and support local farmers. Programs that provide food aid and nutrition to those in need must also be supported.
In conclusion, ending hunger and poverty is one of the most significant global challenges that require collective efforts from everyone. It is a journey that requires collaboration between us all.