Role of Non-State Sector in Food Development Highlighted in Cuba

Seminar Strengthens Cooperation with Non-State Actors for Food Sustainability
The principle of strengthening the management of non-state economic actors for food sustainability was reaffirmed today during the first edition of a seminar executed by the World Food Programme (WFP), which represents an opportunity to establish bridges of cooperation with new economic actors.

Ettienne Labande, WFP Representative in Cuba, noted that this space exceeded expectations, not only fostering fruitful exchange among participants but also establishing itself as a starting point for various actions to be developed in the country in this field.

A Holistic View of Food Security
In line with the event's theme, Labande elaborated that food security goes beyond production and consumption. It encompasses different stages of human life and includes various social and economic sectors, from the moment people work to be able to acquire quality products.

Perspectives from Non-State Project Leaders
Oliesky Fabré del Castillo, leader of the ENPARALELO project, which produces high-nutritional-value foods in an urban context, stated that attending this meeting has allowed for identifying ways to collaborate with WFP to execute diverse strategies in favor of the population.

He highlighted that participating in other spaces of this international organization enabled his entity to align its business model with sustainability and growth objectives, to gain better access to communities and fulfill its social responsibility as a company.

Yusdany Rojas Pérez, from the Juan Verdecia Credit and Services Cooperative in Villa Clara, commented that this exchange allows different actors to present each of the actions they carry out in favor of the seminar's thematic focus.

He added that it is necessary to transmit the ideas consolidated during these days throughout the national territory to achieve effectiveness in the productive processes involving the private sector.

Seminar Details and Historical WFP Collaboration
Approximately 50 new management forms convened at this seminar held from January 28-29, aimed at promoting food security and nutrition through cooperation lines and featuring conferences and workshops.

Held at the Memories Miramar Hotel in this city, it was also sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Trade, the National Institute of Non-State Economic Actors, and the Chamber of Commerce.

Since 1963, with aid to those affected by Hurricane Flora, WFP has been linked to Cuba, supporting the Caribbean country in various development initiatives. To date, this collaboration has materialized in 26 emergency operations and 12 projects.

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world's largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and providing food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for populations recovering from conflicts, disasters, and the impacts of climate change.