A UN official calls for the launch of urgent efforts to rebuild food supply chains in Gaza
The Director of the Food Systems Coordination Center at the United Nations, Stefanos Fuchsio, warned that the diet in the Gaza Strip faces unprecedented damage as a result of the war, noting that between 78% and 91% of agricultural land, farms and greenhouses were damaged. This led to a sharp decline in domestic agricultural production, which was a mainstay of food security in the sector. In an interview with Al Jazeera on the sidelines of the World Social Development Summit in Doha, Fuscio said it was estimated that about 37% of the affected land could be rehabilitated, providing an opportunity to launch urgent efforts to rebuild the diet and ensure the sustainability of chains. supply inside Gaza.
He stressed that the continued flow of humanitarian aid, food, and fuel into the Gaza Strip is a top priority, emphasizing the need to fully open the crossings and provide the necessary conditions to ensure the regular arrival of supplies so that humanitarian organizations can carry out their operations without interruption.
Fushiu explained that what is currently entering Gaza does not meet the actual needs and does not match the agreed-upon quantities and types. Aid is limited to carbohydrates and manufactured goods, while the entry of animal proteins such as meat and fish is prohibited, exacerbating the malnutrition crisis and threatening the health of the population, especially children and the sick.
He noted that the United Nations, represented by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is working with its international partners to develop a plan for post-war food system rehabilitation, but these efforts face a significant funding gap.
He explained that the FAO launched an international appeal for $75 million to support its 2025 plan, but only 10% of the required amount has been secured, hindering the implementation of rehabilitation programs, the promotion of local production, and support for farmers’ livelihoods.Fouchio concluded by emphasizing that bridging the funding gap is a prerequisite for launching a new phase of agricultural recovery in Gaza, explaining that doubling resources will allow for the acceleration of relief and reconstruction projects, and ensure the sustainability of the food system in one of the world’s most crisis-affected regions.
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