Family Farming: Feeding the world, caring for the earth
500 million family farms produce more than half of the world’s food. In Asia 85% of arable land is family farmed. In Africa, families make use of around two thirds of all cultivated land. But many family farmers in Africa and Asia are poor. Young people especially are leaving agriculture, frustrated by lack of opportunity and investment. Better access to water would help many family farms to grow more crops, boosting incomes and local food security. Intensifying agricultural production can be achieved sustainably, but that means making sure that water is used wisely; ensuring that family farmers are empowered to act as vital custodians of our natural resources.
For World Food Day we look at 8 social and technological innovations that can contribute to a water-secure future for rural communities and family farmers:
More information is available on the FAO web site at http://www.fao.org/world-food-day/home/en/
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The 2014 Borlaug Dialogue
The greatest challenge in human history: Can we sustainably feed the 9 billion people on our planet by the year 2050?
Watch LIVE today
October 15-17, 2014, Des Moines, Iowa – Des Moines Marriott Downtown Hotel
As we conclude the yearlong centennial observance of the birth of our founder, Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, the 2014 Borlaug Dialogue international symposium will draw upon Dr. Borlaug’s legacy and address “The Greatest Challenge in Human History: Can We Sustainably Feed the 9 Billion People on our Planet by the Year 2050?” The Dialogue will give special emphasis to the powers of intensification, innovation and inspiration to uplift smallholder farmers and meet the increasing demand for nutritious food.