Archive for category: Food & Hunger

Information and stories on food.

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How Mexico’s Plant-Food Industry Is Fighting Poverty

Mexico’s Plant-Food IndustryMexico is a global leader in plant-based living, boasting the world’s second-largest population adhering to a plant-based diet. Nearly 20% of Mexico’s population identifies as either vegan or vegetarian. The rise of Mexico’s plant-based food sector is driven by young people younger than 35, who comprise the most significant percentage of the nation’s vegans and vegetarians.

Plant-based diets can improve the health of Mexicans while also creating job opportunities and ending hunger among those most in need. In recognition, in April 2024, Mexico enacted the General Law on Appropriate and Sustainable Food (LGASS). This aimed to promote the consumption of healthy foods, though not necessarily vegan foods and ensure sustainable food production.

The law called upon the Secretariat of Health to establish regional food baskets, prioritizing locally or regionally produced foods derived from sustainable production. This naturally emphasizes fruits, vegetables and traditional plant-based staples.

Improving People’s Health

Diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol and obesity all contribute to an early death. People can mitigate these ailments with a healthy diet of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Plant-based diets of these foods allow people to get a rich assortment of vitamins and minerals.

One common misconception is that animal protein is the only source of protein. Plant-based diets provide plenty of protein, including foods like peanut butter, tempeh and beans. Mexicans eat beans multiple times daily, using them as a versatile ingredient in many dishes. This high consumption of beans, among other plant-based meat alternatives, ensures that vegans and vegetarians in Mexico always have a source of high-protein foods.

Another common misconception is that plant-based diets cause vitamin deficiencies. Except for vitamin B12, a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables and whole grains provides every vitamin a person needs. A vitamin B12 supplement is strongly recommended for people interested in switching to a plant-based diet. However, it’s worth noting that one in six meat-eaters will also experience vitamin B12 deficiency anyway, so a supplement is recommended either way.

New Economic Opportunities for Mexican Workers

New plant-based food companies are rapidly expanding across Mexico. They actively create crucial job opportunities for workers and skillfully leverage Mexico’s vast network of produce farmers to develop innovative products. Mexico already boasts a significant export market for fruits and vegetables and global companies are increasingly recognizing and investing in this burgeoning sector, further solidifying its economic potential within the nation’s borders.

Mexico’s plant-food industry is impacting poverty by generating new, high-paying manufacturing jobs that offer upward mobility for individuals who might otherwise have few options for stable employment. Food manufacturing is a critical driver of jobs throughout Mexico and the accelerating growth of the plant-based food sector holds immense potential to expand employment opportunities significantly for people living in impoverished areas.

Increased Food Availability and Ending Hunger

A common misconception suggests that plant-based diets are more expensive, but the evidence strongly indicates otherwise; plant-based eating can significantly save people money compared to meat-rich diets. This is particularly true for low-income communities, which often consume more plant-based foods due to their lower cost. Increasing access to diverse plant-based options in these communities would empower families to achieve well-balanced diets without financial strain.

As incomes rise, people tend to eat more meat, a trend seen in high-income countries like the U.S. and China, where meat is consumed at nearly every meal. The plant-based food industry is working to counter this by promoting the benefits of plant-based diets in low-income communities.

Respecting Cultural Differences and Individual Beliefs

Mexico’s growing plant-food industry offers undeniable benefits, holding the potential to alleviate poverty and uplift disadvantaged communities toward greater prosperity. This burgeoning industry promotes healthier lifestyles and fosters sustainable economic development. It creates new jobs and investment opportunities across the nation’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Beyond economic advantages, the health benefits of a plant-based diet impact individuals regardless of their income.

– Jeff Mathwig

Jeff is based in Philadelphia, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Addressing Food Insecurity in Honduras: The CELAC 2030 Plan

Addressing Food Insecurity in Honduras Under the CELAC 2030 Plan The Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) launched the Plan for Food Security, Nutrition and the Eradication of Hunger 2030 in 2024. With 33 countries participating, the project aims to tackle food insecurity and reinforce commitment to ending hunger.

As 43 million people—approximately 7% of the population—are still malnourished in the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) region, CELAC emphasizes the right to food as a priority. Accordingly, the CELAC 2030 plan encourages governments to implement national policies that legally recognize the right to food as a human right. The plan is to further drive policies that allow sustainable food growth, access to adequate nutrition and support for local family farming. 

In March 2025, 26 countries met in Honduras to assess progress on the CELAC 2030 plan and launch the Food Security and Nutrition Platform to strengthen commitment. With the support of the FAO, World Food Programme and Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the platform is expected to hold states accountable more effectively. With these continuous efforts, food insecurity has decreased over the past two years despite challenges from extreme weather. In line with this global movement and the CELAC 2023 plan framework, Honduras, one of the poorest countries on the continent, has also taken notable steps.

Efforts to Combat Food Insecurity in Honduras

With the national poverty rate at 64% and more than half of the population living in extreme poverty, 1.5 million people in Honduras suffer from food insecurity. Frequent climate shocks such as drought, flood and hurricane have also contributed to Honduras experiencing the highest increase in food insecurity in the LAC region over the past decade.

Another contributing factor is the structure of the agricultural sector. Only a small number of large-scale farmers grow competitive crops that dominate exports, while most farms are small-scale, producing primarily for personal consumption. As an example, 95% of coffee farms in Honduras practise family farming, with many struggling to access broader markets to earn sustainable incomes. In response, the Honduran Minister of Agriculture held the first CELAC coffee summit in 2024. This helped small-scale farmers gain access to bigger markets as it improved the local economy and expanded market opportunities. Honduras has also invested in agricultural research and technology to increase productivity and encourage sustainable farming.

Supporting Organizations

The World Food Programme (WFP) has supported these efforts by training smallholder farmers on how to access bigger markets and promoting local and sustainable food businesses. Additionally, it has assisted in disaster risk management, providing resources to prevent and respond to extreme weather. According to the WFP’s latest annual report, this support has directly benefited 1.4 million people and an additional 2.2 million people indirectly.

The Parliamentary Front Against Hunger has also played a role in addressing food insecurity. It has been involved in meetings regarding the CELAC 2030 plan, where it promoted stronger legislation and monitoring mechanisms and ways to improve resource allocation. Specifically in Honduras, its regional Parliamentary Front Against Hunger has supported various legislation to legally recognize and protect the right to food.

Looking Ahead

The CELAC 2030 Plan has set a clear roadmap to combat hunger and improve nutrition across the LAC region. This framework has also helped address food insecurity in Honduras through efforts such as supporting smallholder farmers, improving responses to climate-related challenges and introducing right-to-food legislation. While challenges remain, coordinated regional efforts like CELAC and the ongoing efforts of the Honduran government can potentially drive progress toward a more food-secure future.

– Lucy Cho

Lucy is based in Edinburgh, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How Urine Fertilizer in Burkina Faso is Boosting Food Security

Urine Fertilizer in Burkina FasoIn Burkina Faso, smallholder farmers are grappling with a crisis that is both old and new: declining soil fertility and skyrocketing fertilizer prices. In a country where approximately 80% of the population depends on agriculture for their livelihood, even slight drops in yield can push families deeper into poverty. Now, an unusual solution is turning human urine into a powerful, low-cost fertilizer that could help farmers grow more food with fewer resources.

Urine Fertilizer in Burkina Faso

Human urine is naturally rich in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, the same nutrients found in commercial fertilizers. By separating urine at the household level using urine diversion toilets, farmers can collect, sanitize and apply it directly to their crops. According to a study in Burkina Faso, using urine fertilizer and compost together increased maize and eggplant yields by up to 90% compared to unfertilized plots.&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;</p&gt;</p>

style=”font-weight: 400;”>Programs led by organizations like CIRAD and the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement are helping farmers in Burkina Faso and neighbouring countries adopt safe collection and application practices. These nutrient recycling pilots demonstrate that farmers can reduce reliance on expensive imported fertilizers while protecting groundwater from untreated waste runoff.

How it works

Simple ecosan toilets separate urine and feces, allowing households to store urine in sealed containers for a few weeks to kill pathogens. Once sanitized, the liquid can be diluted and spread on fields as urine fertilizer. A recent study in Mali found that farmers using urine fertilizer on rice paddies produced 1,623 kg/ha, outperforming plots fertilized with mineral fertilizer and achieved a benefit-cost ratio of 3.3. Farmer cooperatives and local nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) provide training on safe handling, dosage and storage, helping communities overcome taboos around human waste. Many see this as a crucial step for smallholders who struggle to afford chemical fertilizers, which can use 20% to 30% of their annual household budget. 

Benefits for Health, Food Security and the Environment

Urine recycling boosts both yields and reduces pollution. Poor sanitation systems in West Africa often leak nutrients into rivers and groundwater, harming ecosystems and drinking water supplies. By recovering the nutrients from urine for farming, communities can close the loop between sanitation and agriculture in a safe, circular way. This practice directly supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

Looking Ahead

Nutrient recycling is not so widespread in Burkina Faso, but the evidence shows it could be transformative for food security in regions where soil fertility is falling and fertilizer prices are rising. As farmer cooperatives expand training and share success stories, more communities may see that the solution to hunger can be as simple as the waste they flush away.

– Rebecca Lee

Rebecca is based in Scotland and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Growing Mangoes Helps Reduce Poverty

growing mangoes helps reduce povertySlicing into a mango reveals a decadent treat bursting with flavor. More surprisingly, however, growing mangoes helps reduce poverty, as planting mango trees alleviates financial and food insecurity in developing nations. This innovative solution offers hope for progressing toward achieving the United Nations’ first two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030: No Poverty and Zero Hunger.

Why Mangoes?

Mangoes thrive in hot, humid climates and are relatively easy to cultivate, particularly across regions of Asia, Latin America and parts of Africa. Their global popularity has surged recently, with widespread consumption and high demand in international markets. In addition to being a valuable cash crop, mangoes are highly nutritious and rich in essential vitamins.

A Source of Income in India

Unlike many crops grown on large commercial farms, mangoes are often cultivated on small-scale farms. Growing mangoes can significantly reduce poverty by providing families with an additional income of up to $2,700 per hectare of mango trees, helping to lift entire communities out of poverty.

Recognizing this potential, nonprofit organizations like TechnoServe have developed programs to train farmers in India more efficiently to cultivate their mangoes and resist common diseases afflicting mango trees, like dieback. It has also worked to support water-related infrastructure in the local communities. TechnoServe’s program has helped more than 1,000 thousand smallholder farmers in India.

Fighting Hunger in Uganda

Extreme hunger remains a serious issue in Uganda. Malnutrition directly causes nearly one-third of deaths among children aged below 5. One initiative, The Mango Project, donates mangoes to schools, health care clinics and individuals facing food insecurity. The program also trains Ugandan farmers in improved techniques for cultivating hardier mango trees that can survive the region’s six-month dry season.

While Uganda produces hundreds of thousands of tons of mangoes annually, about 40% spoil due to limited access to refrigeration and preservation methods. The Mango Project addressed this by teaching local farmers jarring, which involves boiling small portions of mango to preserve them without requiring specialized supplies like jars. It also teaches local Ugandans general cooking techniques and other necessary health education.

Boosting Health in Haiti

Haiti suffers from one of the highest poverty rates globally, as well as a weak economy. According to agricultural and economic expert Gergens Polynice, growing mangoes helps reduce poverty by strengthening Haiti’s economy. Haiti is already a major supplier of mangoes to the U.S. However, it exports a relatively small fraction of its production. This means there is a significant economic growth opportunity in the mango industry.

Empowering Communities in the Philippines and Indonesia

The Preda Fair Trade Project, operating in the Philippines, supports mango farmers in several ways. It buys unmarketable mangoes to be sold as other mango products. Also, it encourages growing practices that improve quality to be sold on the market.

The Australian Center for International Agricultural Research sponsored a project that teaches farmers in the Philippines and Indonesia organic farming methods to increase mango profits. By improving their livelihoods, these initiatives empower local communities economically and promote long-term sustainability.

– Klara Jones

Klara is based in Los Angeles, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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The Price of Rice: Rising Rice Prices in the Philippines

Rising Rice Prices in the Philippines Rice is more than just a staple food in the Philippines, it is also a cornerstone of daily life, culture and survival for millions. Not only is rice a core nutritional component to the Filipino diet, but it is also a major source of income for millions of Filipino farmers, so much so that rice is the single most important agricultural crop in the Philippines. Unfortunately, in recent years, rising rice prices in the Philippines have put enormous pressure on Filipino households, worsening a poverty crisis that has long plagued the country.

A Surge in Prices

In 2024, the country experienced one of the worst rice price hikes in decades due to the Russia-Ukraine war and the export restrictions that India imposed. By March 2024, rice inflation soared to 24.4%, a staggering increase that has greatly affected the people of the Philippines. The Philippines, which heavily relies on rice imports to stabilize its supply, was caught between global price fluctuations, local supply chain issues and climate-related production setbacks. As prices climbed, families that spent a significant portion of their income on food found themselves choosing between meals and other essentials.

Poverty statistics have illustrated the direct result of this inflation. By the end of 2024, 63% of Filipino families considered themselves poor, according to a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey. That figure marked a 17% increase from just nine months prior and represented the highest self-rated poverty level in over 20 years.

Many respondents attributed their worsening condition to the surge in food prices, especially rice. This increase hit the poorest Filipinos—often small-scale farmers, informal workers and residents of rural areas—the hardest.

Government Response

Recognizing the urgency of the crisis, the Philippine government implemented several key measures, including an executive order No. 62 (July 2024), which reduced rice import tariffs to bring in cheaper foreign rice and curb inflation. This helped minimize rice inflation from 19.6% in December 2023 to 0.8% by December 2024.

To further aid in the rising rice prices, the Department of Social Welfare and Development launched a subsidized rice initiative, selling rice at 29 pesos per kilo to poor households. This program reportedly helped feed more than 35 million Filipinos.

By March 2025, inflation had slowed to 1.8%, its lowest in nearly five years, driven in part by a 7.7% drop in rice prices. Despite short-term progress, experts warn that the Philippines remains vulnerable to recurring food crises. The agricultural sector suffers from underinvestment, outdated farming practices, climate risks and logistical inefficiencies. More than 10 million Filipino rice farmers still struggle with low productivity and limited government support. In the long run, solving the rice crisis is not just about lowering prices, it is about transforming the system.

Final Remarks 

The recent rising rice prices in the Philippines revealed how tightly the issues of food and poverty correlate in the Philippines. While emergency responses have provided a degree of relief, long-term solutions will require structural reforms and sustained political will. Experts and officials aiming to boost domestic rice production and reduce import dependence are pushing long-term agriculture reforms. The continued push of agricultural reforms is essential to breaking the cycle of poverty and building a more equitable future for the Philippine people.

– Meagan Beaver

Meagan Beaver is based in Zephyrhills, FL, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Food Systems in the Galapagos Islands

Food Systems in the Galapagos Islands Galapagos—known for its incomparable biodiversity—thrives from its wildlife. Although more people depend on food imports, this causes a significant reliance on shipments. Food production has been slowing down since the 1970s. Farmers have experienced ongoing struggles with harvesting and sustaining agricultural lands.

Every day, approximately 1,100 food imports, consisting of related food, drink and basic equipment, travel 700 miles to arrive in the Galapagos city port, Puerto Ayora. Much of the population obtains imports such as crates of cereal and apples. The prices of food increased over the years due to the timely travel of shipments. Based on forecasts, food imports could increase by around 95% by 2037. 

Efforts to Regenerate Food Systems

Environmental conservation organizations like Global Nomadic are diving into regenerating food systems across the islands. The organization accepts individual internships for an in-person experience, helping promote food manufacturing. More than 10,000 people applied as interns and volunteers to participate in Global Nomadic’s initiatives. The organization also provides instructors to guide committed students in assisting with these projects. About 40 countries have achieved transformation under these initiatives.

The organization involves small, dedicated groups of farmers helping restore soil and protect ecosystems. Some of its present projects range from harvesting gardens, composting, testing fertilizer packaging and seed germination. Global Nomadic believes in restoring organic farming management to grow the ethnic food supply. This is crucial for the Galapagos Islands, which rely significantly on daily shipping. By educating others to cultivate locally fresh crops, the organization aims to enhance sustainable efforts.

Impact of Tourism on Farming in Galapagos

Farmers do not exactly welcome the idea of traditional agricultural farming with enthusiasm due to the number of tourists visiting the islands each year. The industry sold more tours than the amount of food produced. Many local farmers use chemically-based equipment to nurture crops, so they proposed transitioning to a wholesome food system.

Efforts to Promote Family Farming

Galapagos’ Corporate Office, based in Quito, Ecuador, has rolled out two programs to swiftly run food production in the regions. The Heifer Ecuador Organization developed the National Flagship Program to promote family farming to build systemic modifications to improve food systems in the Galapagos Islands. Furthermore, the program gives producers a chance at transforming economic and social progress.

The Flagship Program started in 2020 and has reached nearly 189,000 families living in rural and urban areas. Its 2030 goal is to help 16,000 rural households to diminish all rates of poverty. The organization believes in raising the income of all families to improve lives. In 2019, about 18 value chains were constructed, aiding 32 families. It also spurred 123 organizations and 55 alliances to form, galvanizing strong unity across all communities.

Looking Ahead

Many consider the Galapagos Islands to be a special paradise to visit. The most iconic wildlife discovered there are the green tortoises and blue-footed boobie birds. Despite the vivid diversity, food is scarce for many of the locals. However, ongoing initiatives aim to improve food systems in the Galapagos for the better. The islands continue to hope for a new, revolutionized era.

– Janae Bayford

Janae is based in Centennial, CO, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Tackling Poverty: Entrepreneurs in Djibouti

djiboutiBetween 1862 and 1977, Djibouti was under French occupation and established a strong economic and military presence, which still exists today. As of 2025, France has five air and naval bases in operation in Djibouti, primarily along the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Djibouti thus remains one of France’s last military strongholds on the continent, following the recent withdrawals from Mali and Burkina Faso in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Beyond the military influence that France still exerts, a reliance on imports into Djibouti raises issues of autonomy. The World Food Program (WFP) reports that Djibouti imports 90% of its food, leaving the country vulnerable to fluctuations in global prices, which can significantly affect a Djiboutian’s food purchasing power.

Entrepreneurs in Djibouti

Although starting a new business is not a rapid solution to a problem as critical as food insecurity, it allows entrepreneurs in Djibouti to take control of their future and offers a level of dignity that is not always possible in countries that face difficult circumstances.

As of 2021, the World Bank’s portfolio in Djibouti came to the sum of $248 million, which went towards urban poverty reduction through community development as well as social safety nets and private sector development.

The Regional Director for the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in East Africa, Jumoke Jagun-Dokunmu, stated that the private sector is a key driver for reducing poverty in Djibouti and the IFC, together with the World Ban,k is exploring “opportunities to support reforms that will improve Djibouti’s business environment and investment climate.”

People and Projects in Djibouti

As of 2023, the Djibouti Social Development Agency and Centre for Leadership and Entrepreneurship – part of a World Bank-financed initiative – has launched the Youth Entrepreneurship Training Program (FORJE), which aims to alleviate poverty and create a ripple effect in communities with high unemployment. In 2023, estimates suggested that 79% of youth in Djibouti were without work, and for women, that figure was at 74%; hence, the need for income generation within communities that are on the periphery of government support.

The FORJE program provides 2,300 microbusinesses access to developmental services like accounting, marketing and capital. For Mouna Yacin Abdillahi, from Dikhil in South-Western Djibouti, her small restaurant business has transformed her family’s life: “The FORJE program gave me an opportunity, a reason to get up every morning, and for that I thank the creators of the program. I feel useful to the community.”

For recipients of the FORJE grants and services, the benefits go far beyond a material improvement in daily life. For Mouna, the program has empowered her and given her a sense of purpose in a community where her job prospects would have been few otherwise.

The Future

Hopefully, more programs financed by international organizations such as the World Bank will start to appear in other parts of Africa that face high levels of unemployment and poverty. Although entrepreneurship is not always the quickest solution to alleviating poverty, a combination of humanitarian aid packages and commercial training programs provides a strong base to economically regenerate communities as well as grant autonomy and dignity to beneficiaries.

– Alfie Williams-Hughes

Alfie is based in Nottingham, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Current State of Hunger in Suriname

Hunger in SurinameThe Republic of Suriname is a small northern South American country on the South Atlantic Ocean. The country is bordered by Guyana, French Guiana and Brazil. Explored by Spain, settled by the English and then became a Dutch colony, the country gained its independence in 1975. Its population of 646,758 is primarily settled along its 240-mile northern coast, with a 66.4% urban population. A third of the country’s population lives in the capital city of Paramaribo, as over 94% of the country is forest. Suriname is considered an upper-middle-income economy, with key exports of aluminum goods, gold and hydrocarbons. GDP primarily comprises services (48.3%) and industry (39.9%).

Hunger in Suriname

The 2024 Global Hunger Index categorizes hunger in Suriname as Moderate, but it is very close to being considered Low. It ranks 55th out of the 127 countries assessed, with its score improving over 26% since 2000. Of the four components comprising the GHI score–% population undernourished, % children who die before age five, % children under five who are stunted or % wasted, all indicators are considered low, except for children wasted (5.2%). 

The 2024 reported performance of Suriname on its achievement of the 17 U.N. Sustainable Development goals showed a score of 70%. On SDG2, Zero Hunger, Suriname is seen as moderately improving, but with challenges remaining, most significantly in the prevalence of obesity (adults), and with stagnation of undernourishment.

Nutrition in Suriname

According to the 2020 Global Nutrition Report, Suriname is “on course” to meet only one of the 13 global nutrition targets—childhood overweight. The country has made some progress regarding childhood stunting and exclusive breastfeeding. However, no progress or worsening was reported for anemia of women of childbearing age, low birth weight and wasting of children under 5, with all other indicators “off course.” As Suriname tackles the remaining challenges of SDG2, this will include the need to address the challenges of nutrition.

Climate Concerns and Food Production

Although only 0.3% of its land is arable, very little of the suitable land is being used for agriculture. Agricultural development economist Iwan Poerschke reports that 60% of Suriname’s consumed food is imported. However, he believes that the favorable climate and fertile soil would allow the country to become a “significant food supplier in the region,” as well as meet its own food needs. Poerschke feels that moving agriculture from an emphasis on small-scale production to action on a larger scale could achieve this. Challenges are, in part, related to mismanagement, insufficient sustainable agricultural development, and other factors. Rising sea levels and temperature often lead to flooding in the fertile coastal area. Although extreme heat in the August through November dry season can lead to drought, as it did in 2023.

Growth of the agricultural sector thus involves government investment, mitigation strategies for addressing climate concerns, research collaboration, organic and ecological farming and the acquisition of knowledge to facilitate these efforts. The country’s Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Minister has already referred to the need to adjust to climate challenges. Indeed, talks are taking place to provide crop insurance options.

A Small Country with a Bigger Impact

Suriname is a small country that does not have a significant food security problem. However, if Poerschke is correct, this small country can do more to provide for itself, as well as to contribute to food security in the region.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

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From Python to Plate: AI Fighting Food Insecurity in Thailand

AI Food InsecurityThailand is a country in Southeast Asia with a population of around 70 million in 2023. In the past few decades, Thailand’s population has been growing exponentially, with an increase of 9.1 million between the years 2000 and 2023. Thailand is a very significant player in the food processing industry, with exports valuing $39 billion in 2022 alone. Despite the country’s prevalence in the food production and export businesses, a 2023 study found that food insecurity impacts 28.6% of the population. Factors impacting this include the lasting effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, geographical location and debt.

An Aging Population or a Call to Action?

Recently, Thailand’s population growth has started to slow, raising concerns regarding the prospect of an aging population. In fact, according to the World Bank, “Thailand is the second-fastest aging country in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) after Singapore, and it is growing old before it grows rich.” If Thailand’s population continues to age, shrinking the country’s workforce, the percentage of Thai citizens living under the poverty line and/or impacted by food insecurity could only continue to grow. To prevent this, it is essential to emphasize and support technologies and legislation that could increase productivity and allow Thai industries to thrive – even with a more limited workforce.

The Connection between AI and Food Insecurity

AI fighting food insecurity may be Thailand’s solution to their aging workforce. In recent years, the Thai government has presented several new programs and technologies to support the growth of AI. One example is the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model. The BCG model is an economic plan that emphasizes sustainability and productivity in several different spheres of industry, one being food and agriculture. According to the BCG model, the Thai agricultural industry could skyrocket in value if the country implements smart farming technology.

Smart farming tactics not only address issues of sustainability but also increase yield, preserve resources and minimize excessive labor. For example, predictive AI can alert farmers about potential pest outbreaks or droughts.

Ricult and HandySense B-Farm

One specific example of AI fighting food insecurity in action is tech start-up Ricult. Usman Javaid and Aukrit Unahalekhaka founded Ricult in an attempt to assist small farmers in their respective native countries, Pakistan and Thailand. One of the projects that the start-up has been developing is a free-to-use phone app meant to make AI-based agritech more accessible to small-scale farmers. Ricult’s website states that the app provides farmers with a “weather forecast, farm satellite, [and] expert advice to improve productivity and profit… [as well as] maximize yield and optimize operations with AI.” Approximately 400,000 farmers in Thailand are using the Ricult app.

Another notable AI agritech program is HandySense B-Farm, a beginner-friendly coding software that specializes in designing digital models for precision farming. The program is highly personalizable and can be adjusted according to crop type and farming conditions. The program includes “a variety of sensors such as real-time temperature, soil moisture, relative humidity, and light sensors, … [enabling] users to design control systems that meet the specific needs of their farms, such as automatic watering when the soil is dry or turning on supplementary lighting when there is insufficient light”

AI and Food Insecurity

According to Research and Markets, the Thailand AI in Agriculture Market stood at $80.33 million in 2023 and could reach $113.96 million by 2029, rising at a CAGR of 6.08%. This exponential increase in market value suggests that AI fighting food insecurity will have a very significant influence in Thailand.

– Helena Birbrower

Helena is based in Davis, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Push for Food Self-Sufficiency in Saudi Arabia

Food Self-Sufficiency in Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia imports nearly 80% of its food, relying heavily on international suppliers like the United States (U.S.), which exported $1.58 billion worth of agricultural products to the Kingdom in 2022. Harsh desert conditions and limited freshwater resources have made large-scale farming difficult, leading to an overwhelming dependence on imports. As part of a long-term development strategy, food self-sufficiency in Saudi Arabia is now a priority of the government, as well as aiming to strengthen food security and reduce vulnerability to global market shocks.

Food Waste and Loss

Despite maintaining food security, Saudi Arabia continues to struggle with food dependency and waste. According to United Nations (U.N.) data, the country accounts for 50% of global food waste, even though it has a population of about 33 million. A recent survey found that 78% of purchased food is discarded within a week to make room for newly bought groceries.

Cultural norms that encourage abundance often lead people to neglect or discard food, worsening the food waste crisis. To address the issue, the Saudi government launched programs such as Vision 2030, which includes a target to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030. In addition, the Saudi government launched the National Program for Food Loss and Waste Reduction to support this goal. Other proposed solutions include raising food prices, as low prices and bulk deals often encourage consumers to purchase more than they need.

Investing in Sustainable Agriculture

To reduce dependence on imports, the Saudi government continues to invest in initiatives like the Agricultural Development Fund (ADF), which strengthens agricultural sectors such as soybeans and maize. The country has made significant progress in the 21st century. By 2023, Saudi Arabia had reached self-sufficiency in dairy products and eggs and began exporting the surplus. The country also boosted the production of potatoes, poultry, tomatoes, red meat, carrots, fish and onions. To support continued agricultural growth, the government promotes innovations such as vertical farming, greenhouses and hydroponics. These technologies help maximize yield while conserving resources.

International Investments

Beyond domestic initiatives, Saudi Arabia is investing internationally to secure food supplies. The Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) has acquired an 80% stake in Singapore-based Olam Agri for $1.8 billion. This acquisition provides Saudi Arabia with access to global supply chains and strengthens its position in the international agricultural market.

Moving Forward

Saudi Arabia’s population will likely reach 40 million by 2050. To keep pace, the government focuses on improving food consumption efficiency and reducing dependence on imports. Although the country currently contributes a significant portion of global food waste, new regulations and public awareness campaigns could help lower that share over the next five years.

Efforts to expand local food production, improve waste management and promote agricultural innovation remain integral to food self-sufficiency in Saudi Arabia, and its development plans. Continued investment in sustainable practices could help the country strengthen food security and support its growing population in the years ahead.​

– Naseem Rahman

Naseem is based in Staten Island, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr