Agriculture is the main source of income for several hundred million people around the world who struggle with poverty and hunger, most of whom are connected to small-scale, or smallholder, farms which collectively supply most food in developing communities.
Agricultural development is one of the most powerful tools to end extreme poverty, boost shared prosperity, and feed a projected 10 billion people by 2050. Growth in the agriculture sector is two to four times more effective in raising incomes among the poorest compared to other sectors and is crucial to economic growth.
But agriculture-driven growth, poverty reduction, and food security are at risk due to multiple shocks from COVID-19 related disruptions to extreme weather, pests, and conflicts, especially following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the impact of climate change which will reduce crop yeilds. In addition poor diets and food insecurity worsen diet quality and increase the risk of various forms of malnutrition and illness.
Join us at our Sydney event to hear sector leaders with diverse backgrounds share how they are working to improve food security.
Speakers
Prof Anne Marie Thow
Prof Anne Marie Thow studies food system and nutrition policy, with a focus on how effective engagement between policy sectors can be achieved.
She also regularly consults with national governments and international agencies regarding food system policy, including current appointments to the World Health Organization’s Nutrition Guidance Advisory Group, the United Nations Tax Committee, the World Bank Macro-economics Division, and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.
Prior to undertaking her PhD at the University of Sydney, Anne Marie worked for the Governments of Australia and Fiji on nutrition policy issues. She trained in nutrition and has a Masters in Public Policy and Economics.
Ai Leen Quah
Ai Leen Quah is the International Programs Lead at Quaker Service Australia, where she works with partners specialising in food security.
She is a progressive and values-driven professional with over 13 years of experience in partnerships, policy and programs, having worked with the United Nations Development Program, The Fred Hollows Foundation and community-based NGOs.
She has also contributed to the sector through anti-racism initiatives, as a member of ACFID’s Development Practice Committee, and involvement in Oxfam Australia’s governance.