Lend a helping hand to all with food security

 

IN PREVIOUS years, Myanmar has achieved self-sufficiency in food production, with 154.33 per cent rice security, 126.2 per cent cooking oil security, and 512 per cent bean security, contributing to both regional and global food security.

In 2023, Myanmar was severely impacted by El Niño, experiencing extreme heat, rapid drying of lakes, and a decline in underground water levels. That created challenges for both agriculture and public water consumption. In response, the management of water supply systems, including dams, diversion weirs, and sluice gates, was carefully regulated to prevent harm to agricultural activities and ensure sufficient water for public use. These irrigation systems provided water for summer paddy plantations and drinking, depending on their storage capacity.

In 2024, Typhoon Yagi and other deep depressions caused heavy rains across Myanmar, leading to flash floods, inundation, river and creek overflow, landslides, and significant damage to roads and bridges. Approximately 1 million people from over 80,000 families were severely affected in nine regions and states. The typhoon resulted in 520 fatalities and numerous individuals missing, as well as the deaths of over 180,000 animals and damage to more than 700,000 acres of paddy and other crops. Unfortunately, the disaster also destroyed roads, bridges, schools, and essential utilities such as electricity and communication facilities.

Farmers must collaborate with regional and state governments to quickly replant crops in disaster-affected areas to ensure a steady supply of agricultural produce for public consumption. Many countries worldwide are still grappling with the impacts of natural disasters, resulting in significant food shortages. Therefore, countries, including Myanmar, should offer their surplus food to help alleviate global food insecurity.

World Food Day 2024 is celebrated under the theme “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future. “While the world’s farmers produce enough food to feed more than the global population, hunger still persists. Everyone must realize the vision of a world where food is shared to eliminate hunger and malnutrition. We must sustain our commitment to addressing food security, even in times of crisis.

Everyone must focus on producing healthy foods with minimal chemical residues. It’s essential to share knowledge and support sustainable, resilient food systems and livelihoods. All individuals are responsible for their survival, especially in the face of severe natural disasters, and should be prepared to provide food for one another to ensure food safety for all.

#TheGlobalNewLightOfMyanmar