As part of its #FeedingDev and #MDGMomentum series, Devex has published several opinion pieces discussing food security.

Devex: Food security and nutrition in Africa’s cities
Ambassador William Garvelink, senior adviser for global strategy at the International Medical Corps

“…The renewed emphasis on agriculture, especially since the G8 L’Aquila Summit pledges in 2009, has made great strides in improving food security and nutrition for the rural poor in sub-Saharan Africa. But with the shift of food insecurity and malnutrition to the cities, it is incumbent on the international community to acknowledge that these are no longer just rural concerns. They are serious urban problems requiring immediate attention, innovative solutions and financial support…” (7/24).

Devex: The MDGs have made ending hunger by 2030 possible
Mary Ellen McNish, president and CEO of The Hunger Project

“…Our experience at The Hunger Project tells us that [the post-2015 development agenda] should center around five basic strategies, which will help us end hunger and poverty and ensure a future of self-reliance and dignity for all people, especially the rural poor: 1. Start with women; 2. Mobilize communities; 3. Engage local governments; 4. Use a holistic, coordinated approach; [and] 5. Work in partnership with others. Using these fundamental strategies within the framework of the MDGs has enabled us to see incredible progress in many areas…” (7/23).

Devex: Nutrition and health: The opportunity cost of opportunities lost
Joel Spicer, president of the Micronutrient Initiative

“…We know that the effectiveness of many public health interventions is compromised by poor underlying nutritional status. Children must start life with their basic nutrition needs met and their development potential protected. More must be done to ensure vulnerable people receive health and nutrition services in the most integrated way possible. We can and must eliminate missed opportunities in the spaces between nutrition and health, and nutrition and other sectors” (7/23).

Devex: The nexus of agriculture and nutrition
Claire Starkey, creative strategist and agricultural consultant

“…Just as important as the foods one eats are safe water and good sanitation. The increased availability of healthy foods is as much about expanding household purchasing power as it is about selecting and growing nutritious crops. Agricultural programs that increase small-holder yields and incomes are now universally recognized as potential contributors to healthier families and children, and are able to exponentially increase effectiveness when nutrition activities are integrated…” (7/23).