MAFAR LAUNCH BANGSAMORO FOOD SECURITY AND NUTRITION PLAN 2023-2028
COTABATO CITY- To enhance the food security of the Bangsamoro region, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform spearheaded the launching of the Bangsamoro Food Security and Nutrition Plan (BFSNP) 2023-2028 at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex (SKCC) on Thursday, November 23.
This event stands as a momentous milestone for the Bangsamoro Government, marking a shared commitment to ensuring the safety and security of food resources in the region.
By prioritizing the safety of food sources, BFSNP 2023-2028 has been launched to guide responsible agencies throughout the six-year implementation of the plan towards improving the livelihoods of Bangsamoro and addressing the hunger and malnutrition of the region.
Chief Minister Hon. Ahod B. Ebrahim graced the event, which featured significant commitment from key figures, including Senior Minister Hon. Abunawas L. Maslamama and Deputy Speaker of BTA Parliament MP Atty. Omar Yasser C. Sema.
During his keynote message, Chief Minister Ebrahim underscored that this official launch of BFSNP 2023-2028 is a blueprint testament to the commitment of all responsible Bangsamoro officials and partner agencies.
“Indeed, creating this plan will strengthen the region’s vision towards a sustainable food system,” he said.
“Make this plan guide you in implementing the plan. Let us work together to ensure the successful implementation of this Bangsamoro Food Security And Nutrition Plan,” he added.
Senior Minister Maslamama emphasized that “Food security is not just about producing food; it encompasses ensuring that the food produced is nutritious, accessible, and, of course, sustainable.”
MAFAR Minister Mohammad S. Yacob, Ph.D., who also serves as Chairperson of the Bangsamoro Food Security Task Force, presented the comprehensive 10-Year Food Security and Nutrition Plan (BFSNP), 2023-2028.
In his presentation, he emphasized the BARMM Food Security and Nutrition Roadmap, highlighting the transformation of the roadmap into a detailed and specific plan for the region’s benefit.
Meanwhile, the Bangsamoro General of the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Agency and Vice-Chairperson of the Bangsamoro Food Security Task Force, Engr. Mohajirin T. Ali, MNSA, presented the Overview and Planning Process of the BFSNP.
Various offices joined the event, including the Ministry of Basic, Higher Technical Education (MBHTE), Ministry of Environment, Natural Resource and Energy (MENRE), Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), Ministry of Indigenous People Agency (MIPA), Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism (MTIT), Department of Social Welfare and Development XII (DSWD) and Local Government Unit of Cotabato.
Active collaboration with department partners, including the United Nations World Food Programme (UNWFP), United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (UNFAO), and the Government of Japan, further strengthened support for the impactful 6-year plan benefiting the BARMM community.
During the ceremony, department partners made a profound statement about the region’s resilience and commitment to positive change, ensuring that no one in the Bangsamoro community will go hungry.
Meanwhile, MP Atty. Sema congratulated the Bangsamoro Food Security Task Force and the other ministries and department partners for their collaborative efforts in formulating this visionary plan.
“It is a commitment to the well-being of every citizen in the Bangsamoro region,” he said.
The ceremony declared that the government is steadfast in pursuing positive change towards a future where hunger is eradicated and the well-being of every Bangsamoro resident is safeguarded.