FAO Calls For Integrated Water Resources Management To Transform Agrifood Systems
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has called on governments to prioritize water in national sustainable development strategies, policies and investment plans.
According to FAOon its website, “despite growing awareness of the importance of water in achieving all the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), more integrated actions are needed.
“Governments must prioritize water in national sustainable development strategies, policies and investment plans to ensure effective management.
“At the 10th World Water Forum, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will launch the initiative “National Water Roadmaps towards the 2030 Agenda” at a High-Level Special Session on 20 May”.
FAO highlights the critical role of water in agriculture and its impact on global food security and sustainable development.
FAO says “Water resources are fundamental to agriculture, which accounts for a significant 72% of global freshwater withdrawals.
“Achieving food security and ending hunger requires access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene. Agriculture heavily depends on good quality water, making water management a key factor in the fight against hunger and malnutrition.
“Governments and other stakeholders have acknowledged the interlinkages between water, sanitation, health, ecosystems, and food systems, stressing the need for coordinated efforts to address water-related challenges. Increasing losses from water-related disasters such as droughts, floods, and salinity intrusion, pose a significant threat, especially to vulnerable populations”.
