Lerato Matheka
His Majesty King Letsie III continues to be a beacon of hope in the fight against global malnutrition as his term as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition has been renewed for the 2024-2026 term.
This renewal, officially announced on April 9, 2024, by the Director General of FAO, marks another milestone in the King’s dedicated journey since his initial appointment in 2022.
Advocating for Global Nutrition
Since his appointment, the King has been a tireless advocate for improving nutrition and food security worldwide. His efforts have significantly raised awareness about the crucial role of nutrition in achieving sustainable development with his advocacy work emphasising that without proper nutrition, children cannot grow, learn, or thrive, and economies cannot develop.
In numerous international forums, including the United Nations General Assembly and various FAO conferences, His Majesty has called for increased investment in nutrition programs. He has focused on the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children in developing countries.
Renewed Term: A Testament to His Impact
The FAO Director General expressed deep appreciation for King Letsie’s support and dedication in a letter dated April 9, 2024. The letter highlighted His Majesty’s inspiring contributions and extended an invitation to renew his designation as the FAO Special Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition.
“Your Majesty’s dedication as FAO Special Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition has been inspiring. Considering our fruitful collaboration, I have the honour to extend an invitation to renew Your Majesty’s designation for the term 2024-2026. Your Majesty’s involvement will undoubtedly strengthen our collective efforts in the ongoing battle against hunger and malnutrition,” the letter read.
King Letsie’s Acceptance
On May 23, 2024, King Letsie III graciously accepted the renewal invitation, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration to tackle global nutrition challenges.
“It has been a truly inspiring and fulfilling journey; partnering with the FAO since 2016 in the battle against malnutrition and hunger on the globe. It is evident that it is only through collaborations and partnerships that we can achieve our collective aspirations,” King Letsie III stated in his acceptance letter. “It is therefore, with profound gratitude that I accept your invitation to renew my assignment as the FAO Special Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition for the term 2024-2026. I look forward to yet another term of fruitful collaborations.”
Achievements and Future Goals
King Letsie III’s advocacy has led to significant progress in various regions. His support for the African Union’s Malabo Declaration has been crucial in mobilising resources and political commitment to end hunger and reduce stunting among children by 2025.
In Lesotho, he has championed national campaigns to improve food security and nutrition, supporting initiatives like school feeding programs.
Having advocated for strengthen community-based nutrition programs and policies that promote sustainable agricultural practices, his renewed term would allow him to continue his impactful work, leveraging his influence to foster collaborations that address the root causes of food insecurity and malnutrition.
Global Influence and Local Impact
King Letsie’s influence extends beyond Africa. As a global ambassador, he has worked closely with international organisations, governments, and NGOs to promote best practices in nutrition. His leadership has inspired many to prioritise nutrition in their own countries, making it a central issue on the global development agenda.
King Letsie III’s role as the FAO Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition exemplifies the powerful impact of dedicated advocacy. His unwavering commitment continues to inspire efforts to achieve a world where everyone has access to the nutritious food they need to lead healthy, productive lives. As he embarks on another term, the global community looks forward to his continued leadership and the positive changes it will bring in the fight against malnutrition and hunger.
