NEW YORK, Sept. 24, 2024 – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making a bold and powerful commitment to address global food security through its two flagship international development programs. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today at the Clinton Global Initiative 2024 annual meeting that the USDA will provide a staggering $466.5 million towards this crucial cause.
This unprecedented funding will go towards strengthening global food security, a critical issue that affects millions of people around the world. The USDA’s commitment to this cause highlights the agency’s dedication to promoting sustainable agriculture and ensuring that everyone has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food.
Secretary Vilsack expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, “The USDA is proud to play a leading role in addressing global food security. With this significant investment, we are reaffirming our commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and helping to feed the world’s growing population.”
The $466.5 million will be allocated towards two of the USDA’s premier international development programs – the Feed the Future program and the McGovern-Dole Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program. Both of these programs have a proven track record of success in promoting food security and improving the lives of millions of people around the world.
The Feed the Future program, launched in 2010, focuses on empowering smallholder farmers in developing countries to increase their productivity and incomes. This program has already made a significant impact, reaching over 7 million smallholder farmers and helping to lift more than 1.6 million people out of poverty.
The McGovern-Dole Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program, established in 2000, provides school meals and nutrition education to children in developing countries. This program not only helps to combat hunger but also encourages children to attend school, leading to improved education and future opportunities.
The USDA’s investment in these programs will not only benefit those in need but also have a positive impact on the global economy. As Secretary Vilsack noted, “Investing in global food security is not just a moral imperative, it is also a smart economic decision. By helping to increase agricultural productivity and reduce poverty, we are promoting economic growth and stability around the world.”
The announcement of this funding comes at a critical time when the world is facing numerous challenges, including a growing population, climate change, and food insecurity. The USDA’s commitment to addressing these issues through sustainable agriculture and international development is commendable and sets an example for other countries to follow.
Furthermore, this investment aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly goal number two – Zero Hunger. The USDA’s contribution will undoubtedly make a significant impact towards achieving this goal and ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious and sufficient food.
The Clinton Global Initiative 2024 annual meeting brings together leaders from various sectors to discuss global issues and develop innovative solutions. The USDA’s commitment to global food security is a testament to the agency’s dedication to making a positive impact on the world stage.
In conclusion, the USDA’s pledge of $466.5 million towards strengthening global food security is a significant step towards promoting sustainable agriculture and combating hunger and poverty. This investment will undoubtedly have a profound and lasting impact on the lives of millions of people around the world. Let us all join hands and support the USDA in this noble cause to create a world where no one goes to bed hungry.
