When South Africa assumed the presidency of the G20 last December, it selected a theme that resonated deeply with the current state of global affairs: “solidarity, equality, and sustainability.” Far from being a mere slogan, these three words capture the essence of what is urgently required to tackle one of humanity’s gravest challenges – the growing global hunger crisis.

As conflict, climate change, and economic inequality continue to converge, food insecurity has surged to alarming levels across continents. The world does not lack the knowledge or the tools to end hunger; rather, it lacks the political courage and collective will to implement proven solutions. South Africa’s leadership of the G20 offers a rare opportunity to push for a coordinated global response grounded in justice, empathy, and practical action.

Today’s hunger crisis is not the result of scarcity, but of systemic failure. Climate-related disasters have devastated harvests in Africa and Asia, while wars – from Ukraine to the Sahel – have disrupted food supply chains and inflated prices. Meanwhile, speculative trading and profit-driven agribusiness models have made food less affordable for millions. According to the UN, more than 735 million people worldwide faced chronic hunger in 2024 – a number that continues to climb.

Despite this grim reality, there are models that prove hunger can be defeated through sound public policy. Brazil stands as a powerful example. Under President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the country lifted more than 40 million people out of food insecurity in just two years,........

© Blitz