“Transforming Agriculture Isn’t a Choice But A Moral Obligation,” President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Says   

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2025 (ENA) -- "Transforming agriculture is not a choice, but a moral obligation and national necessity," said Somalian President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. He also called for international solidarity in the sector.

The 2nd United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4) kicked off this morning in the presence of heads of state of several countries and delegations of international organizations in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa.

At the event, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized the importance of this summit, which he said was taking place at a critical time.

He mentioned that the world is at a crossroads, facing a convergence of crises and unprecedented demands on the food system.

He said that this gathering is timely and essential, and that it is not just for reflection, but also for renewing our shared commitment to building a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive food system for all.

Noting that the world is grappling with overlapping global crises, armed conflicts, climate shocks, and wider income disparities, he said that the urgency of transforming how we produce, distribute, and consume food is greater today than ever before.

He said that for Somalia, agriculture is more than just a sector; it is the lifeblood of our society, culture, and survival while mentioning the sector's contribution to the nation's GDP and socioeconomic development.

The president stated that, in an effort to transform its agricultural sector, Somalia is charting a new course through the national transformation plan, identifying agriculture as the engine of inclusive growth, social cohesion, and national recovery.

He said Somalia is committed to ending poverty and hunger, and remarked that "transforming agriculture is not a choice, but a moral obligation and national necessity."

In this regard, the national transformation plan prioritizes private-led growth, public-private partnerships, and comprehensive value chain reforms.

He mentioned that Somalia is also working to strengthen livelihoods and connect producers to domestic and export markets.

President Sheikh Mohamud underscored Somalia’s commitment to sustainable development and ensuring that no one is left behind, as well as its efforts to implement various regional flagship programs and harmonize them with national plans.

While mentioning the progress Somalia has made in agricultural transformation and food systems over the years, the president mentioned the formidable challenges the nation has been facing.

To that end, the president called for strengthening international solidarity, ensuring equitable access to climate financing, and providing technical assistance and innovation.