Water scarcity and food security emerged as prominent themes at the 2026 Global Forum for Food and Agriculture held in Berlin, where Agriculture and Waterways Minister Tomasi Tunabuna represented his country. This significant gathering, noted as the world’s largest meeting of agricultural leaders, convened over 60 agriculture ministers and senior officials to discuss pressing global issues.
The forum’s theme, “Water. Harvests. Our Future,” chosen by German Federal Minister Alois Rainer, set the stage for intense discussions on the critical role of water in sustaining life and driving economic activities. Tunabuna emphasized the direct correlation between access to clean water and the right to food, underscoring the urgent challenges faced by over two billion people experiencing water stress. He attributed this crisis to various factors, including climate change, population growth, pollution, and ineffective water management.
In his address, Tunabuna pointed out that agriculture, fisheries, and aquaculture are facing increasing competition for limited water resources, jeopardizing global food security and nutrition. He highlighted that agriculture is the most significant consumer of water worldwide, integral to supporting ecosystems and maintaining the water cycle.
Advocating for sustainable water management practices, Tunabuna called for collaboration and compromise among stakeholders. He noted the growing recognition of water issues on the global stage, referencing initiatives such as the UN Water Action Decade and the forthcoming 2026 UN Water Conference as pivotal moments for addressing these challenges.
In support of the GFFA Communiqué, Minister Tunabuna stressed the importance of water, food, and nutrition security for Pacific communities, advocating for crop diversity and robust livestock, fisheries, and aquaculture systems. He argued that these initiatives are essential for fostering resilient bio-economies and aligning with broader goals under the 2030 Agenda and the Pact for the Future.
The forum also featured young farmers who presented a declaration focusing on the future of agriculture, signaling a commitment to sustainable practices and innovation in the sector. This involvement of the younger generation highlights a hopeful outlook for agriculture as they play a crucial role in shaping the future of food security and resource management.
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