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Leaders from diverse sectors gathered in Des Moines for a World Food Prize Event to address one of the world’s most critical challenges: food security. Through panels, discussions and hands-on initiatives, industry professionals, students and diplomats explored solutions that combine innovation, policy and cross-border collaboration. This collective effort reflects the multifaceted approach necessary to ensure sustainable food systems.  

Innovative Solutions for Water Access in Tanzania 
Matt Hamilton and Isaac McNary represented The Outreach Program, which provides safe water, food, medical care and education to childern abroad. They highlighted their transformative water point system, designed to provide clean water for schools in Tanzania. Combining ultra-filtration and ultraviolet (UV) technology, the solar-powered system produces 600 gallons of potable water daily. This makes it an invaluable resource in rural schools affected by waterborne illnesses. This system requires minimal maintenance and demonstrates how innovation can address foundational needs in education by promoting health and reducing absenteeism. 

The Outreach Program’s success, funded through U.S.-based sponsorships, has had a direct impact on communities, bringing clean water to 8,000 students across multiple schools. Looking ahead, Hamilton suggested that the technology could be applied in developed countries with some modifications, adapting to the different challenges posed by chemical contaminants. This potential expansion showcases how technology can bridge health gaps globally, adapting solutions to diverse environmental needs.  

Students and Industry Leaders Uniting for Food Security
The Bourlaug Dialogue events also welcomed students from the Global Orientation to Agricultural Learning (GOALS) program, who engaged in discussions about sustainable agriculture and food security. Jasmine Jones and Fernando Montelongo, participants in the USDA-funded program, noted the importance of such experiences in preparing them to be future educators and advocates for sustainable practices.  

Mentor and Hormel Foods manager Sneha Jogi underscored the need for young minds in the food security sector. Addressing both college students and professionals, she urged those outside agriculture to learn about the global food landscape. “Food security and malnutrition affect everyone,” Jogi said.  

She emphasizes the universal relevance of food systems and the necessity for involvement across industries.  

The Role of Diplomacy in Food Security
A prominent theme of the event was the role of diplomacy in food security, with leaders like U.S. Ambassador to the UN Agencies for Food and Agriculture Ertharin Cousin and Sierra Leone Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Henry Musa Paca illustrating how partnerships between countries can address the challenges posed by climate change and conflict. Paca stressed the importance of alliances in his country’s efforts to bolster food security and economic growth, highlighting the cross-border potential of initiatives like the Alliance of Champions for Food Systems Transformation. Similarly, Elsie S. Kanza, Ambassador of Tanzania to U.S., shared her country’s commitment to collaboration, achieving over 100% food self-sufficiency through public-private partnerships.  

Panelists emphasized key strategies for fostering effective diplomatic solutions to food security challenges. These include engaging local farmers, building international partnerships and investing in research and development and implementing long-term policies. Reiterating the necessity of policy frameworks that span decades, as seen in Honduras’ 20-year agri-food strategy.  

Ambassador Kanza’s Call to Action for Students
Addressing the next generation directly, Kanza encouraged students to think globally and explore food security as an “exciting space” filled with opportunities for positive impact. She advocated for international exchange programs that foster mutual learning between regions.  

“To feed the world, we’re going to need to build bridges,” Kanza said. 

Kanza underscored the importance of collaboration across countries. Her message emphasized that tackling food system challenges demands not only innovative solutions but also a deep cultural exchange.  

Students were also encouraged to consider the environmental aspects of food security, with Kanza urging them to prioritize climate resilience in their pursuits. From adaptive farming practices to waste reduction, her advice underscored the role of young leaders in creating sustainable food systems.  

Building a Resilient Future
The Bourlaug Dialogue’s events highlighted that sustainable food security is achievable only through a blend of technological innovation, strong diplomatic ties and the active participation of young minds. By integrating health-focused technologies, supportive policies and youth engagement, the global community could work toward resilient and inclusive food systems that can withstand future challenges. As Ambassador Kanza noted, that interconnected approach will ultimately benefit generations to come.