Morocco’s Re-election to the Board of the World Food Programme A Testament to Leadership and Global Commitment

Saturday 07 December 2024 - 11:05

Morocco has been re-elected to the Board of the World Food Programme (WFP) for another one-year term during the 176th session of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Council held in Rome from December 2 to 6, 2024. This re-election underscores international recognition of Morocco’s continuous efforts to strengthen food security both regionally and globally, as highlighted by the Moroccan diplomatic mission in Rome.

The re-election reflects the credibility Morocco has earned and acknowledges the leadership demonstrated by the Kingdom during its tenure as the President of the WFP Board in 2024. This position was held by Morocco’s permanent representative to the UN organizations in Rome, Ambassador Youssef Balla. It also signifies the trust placed in Morocco by the members of the FAO, recognizing its ability to defend Africa’s priorities while effectively contributing to addressing global challenges in food security and nutrition.

During the FAO Council session, the Moroccan delegation, led by Ambassador Balla, actively participated in discussions on critical issues. Among the key topics were the Hand-in-Hand Initiative aimed at accelerating agricultural transformation and rural development, emergency interventions by UN agencies in food crisis situations, and the impact of conflicts on global food security. The Moroccan delegation also emphasized the priorities of African countries, aligning with the strategies and recommendations developed during the 33rd FAO Regional Conference for Africa held in Rabat in April 2024.

This participation highlights Morocco’s commitment to enhancing solidarity and cooperation among African nations to tackle the continent’s food and nutrition challenges. A key issue raised was the sustainable management of water resources, which is crucial for ensuring food security, particularly in regions affected by droughts and the consequences of climate change.

The WFP Board of Directors, composed of 36 members, is the governing body responsible for setting the political direction and overseeing the activities of this UN humanitarian agency. The WFP works globally to combat hunger and malnutrition, providing emergency humanitarian assistance and supporting governments to ensure long-term food security while building the resilience of vulnerable communities.

Morocco’s ongoing involvement in the WFP Board and the FAO Council underscores its active role in addressing both regional and global food security challenges, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable development and international cooperation.