The UN Food Systems Coordination Hub has concluded a high-level regional mission across the Caribbean and Central America aimed at accelerating food systems transformation through stronger partnerships, improved coordination, and increased investment in sustainable agriculture and nutrition.
The mission, led by Carlos Watson, Director a.i. of the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub, brought together government leaders, United Nations agencies, regional institutions, and development partners to align efforts on food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development across multiple countries in the region.
A major focus of the mission was unlocking financing for food systems transformation. During the Caribbean Food Systems Investment Forum in Barbados, discussions centered on reducing barriers to investment, strengthening agricultural value chains, and mobilizing both public and private capital to support long-term food security and rural development.
Watson emphasized the importance of collaboration between governments, financial institutions, and development partners to scale impactful solutions that improve resilience and create economic opportunities in agriculture and related sectors.
Throughout the mission, the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub engaged with multiple regional and international partners, including the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture and the Scaling Up Nutrition Movement. These discussions highlighted the need for stronger coordination between institutions to support country-led food systems strategies and improve implementation efficiency.
Meetings also focused on aligning national priorities with broader UN frameworks and strengthening the role of UN coordination offices in supporting integrated development planning across sectors.
In Panama, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic, discussions with government officials and UN partners focused on improving food security, strengthening governance systems, and expanding rural development opportunities. Countries shared ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing climate resilience, improving nutrition outcomes, and supporting vulnerable communities.
In the Dominican Republic, the Hub also supported the launch of a joint SDG-focused programme designed to accelerate food systems transformation through territorial development and improved coordination among stakeholders.
The mission highlighted growing momentum across the Caribbean and Central America toward more resilient and sustainable food systems. Common priorities included improving investment flows, strengthening cross-sector coordination, and expanding opportunities for youth, women, and rural communities.
The UN Food Systems Coordination Hub reaffirmed its commitment to supporting countries in translating global commitments into practical, locally driven action. The mission concluded with a shared understanding that regional cooperation will be key to achieving long-term progress in food security, nutrition, and sustainable development.
