The National Food and Nutrition Security Commission

Goal

To Coordinate and Advocate with all Sectors of the economy and other stakeholders on National Food and Nutrition Security matters, in order to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Belizeans.

Background:

The N.F.N.S.C. was established in 2001 with the primary goal of achieving national food and nutrition security objectives. This collaborative group consists of professionals from both government and non-governmental organizations, working collectively to address critical issues related to food security.

Advisory Role to Cabinet:

The Commission serves as an advisory body to the Cabinet, offering insights and recommendations on matters pertinent to Food and Nutrition Security in Belize.

Ministry of Agriculture Oversight:

Chaired by the Ministry of Agriculture, the N.F.N.S.C. benefits from oversight powers that guide policy formulation and program implementation.

Annual World Food Day Celebrations:

The N.F.N.S.C., in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organization, actively participates in the annual World Food Day celebrations. World Food Day serves as a platform to promote global awareness and stimulate action to alleviate hunger. The event underscores the imperative to ensure food security and promote a nutritious diet worldwide. The collaborative efforts have not only enhanced the visibility of food security challenges but have also resulted in tangible actions to combat hunger globally.

Achievements and Contributions:

Policy Formulation:

The N.F.N.S.C. actively contributes to the formulation of policies aimed at addressing food and nutrition security issues.

Program Implementation:

Collaborative programs and initiatives have been successfully implemented, leading to positive outcomes in local and global contexts.

Challenges and Future Outlook:

Ongoing Challenges:

While progress has been made, challenges in achieving comprehensive food security persist, particularly in reaching vulnerable populations.

Future Initiatives:

The N.F.N.S.C. remains committed to exploring innovative strategies and partnerships to overcome challenges and further advance food and nutrition security objectives.

The collaborative efforts of the N.F.N.S.C., under the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture, exemplify a dedicated commitment to addressing food and nutrition security challenges. The annual World Food Day celebrations stand as a testament to the collective determination to eliminate hunger and ensure a nutritious diet for all.

Activities

Some of the activities performed are:

  1. Build capacity in the Commission to assist in the implementation of the Food and Nutrition Security Policy.
  2. Enhance the knowledge, skills and entrepreneurship of all stakeholders involved in food and nutrition security.
  3. Raise awareness to the public by disseminating information to the public with respect to food and nutrition.
  4. Monitor and evaluate achievable plans recommended by all stakeholder to Cabinet Members in regards to food and nutrition situation of the country
  5. Establish functional linkages with other regional and international bodies involved with food and nutrition security.
  6. Promote adequate intake of micro and macro nutrients especially among women, children, the elderly and the most vulnerable.
  7. Ensure the development of sustainable, environmentally sound policies, plans and program for food and nutrition security.

Future Activities

  1. Expansion of Sustainable School Feeding Programs to the rest of the country.
  2. School Garden Trainings (MoE/MoA)
  3. Nutrition Education (MoE & MoH)
  4. Capacity building for Family Farming
  5. Governance workshop for MoA staff

Contact Information

Mr. Emilio Montero- Coordinator of N.F.N.S.C
Email: emilio.montero@agriculture.gov.bz
Phone #: 828-4804
National Agriculture and Trade Show Grounds, Belmopan, Belize, C.A.

Collaborators