The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlighted the urgent need for climate action and safe food systems during a special awareness event held in Multan. The event brought together women farmers, government officials, and agriculture experts to discuss sustainable farming practices and food safety. It marked the observance of World Environment Day and World Food Safety Day 2026 under the theme “Call for Climate Action and Safe Food Everywhere.”
The program was organized as part of FAO’s Green Climate Fund supported initiative titled “Transforming the Indus Basin with Climate Resilient Agriculture and Water Management.” The project is also co financed by the governments of Punjab and Sindh. Its primary goal is to strengthen climate resilience, improve water management, and support farming communities facing environmental challenges.
Representatives from the Punjab Food Authority, the Environmental Protection Agency Punjab, and several Women Farmer Facilitators participated in the event. Discussions focused on the close relationship between environmental protection, climate resilient agriculture, and food safety, emphasizing that these areas must work together to ensure healthy communities.
Speaking at the event, FAO Punjab Office In charge Noella Kamwendo explained that safe food systems begin long before food reaches consumers. She said healthy soil, clean water, quality seeds, responsible farming, proper storage, and effective food handling all play a vital role in delivering safe food. She added that FAO is helping vulnerable farming communities adopt climate resilient agricultural practices, improve water conservation, and strengthen their ability to adapt to climate change.
Punjab Food Authority Principal Officer Dr. Aftab Qamar discussed food safety throughout the entire farm to table process. He also highlighted the harmful effects of excessive pesticide use on public health and food quality. Meanwhile, Environmental Protection Agency Punjab District Officer Dr. Tahir Abbas raised awareness about the environmental damage caused by stubble burning and its impact on soil fertility.
Closing the event, FAO Communications Specialist Shahnawaz Arif encouraged farmers to adopt responsible agricultural practices and benefit from Farmer Field Schools that promote climate resilient farming. Women Farmer Facilitators also shared how Women Open Schools are helping local communities learn modern farming techniques while encouraging women to view agriculture as both a sustainable livelihood and a growing business opportunity.
