The Special Programme for Food Security (SPFS) is a major focus for FAO action in the field. Launched by FAO in 1994, SPFS helps farmers in low-income food-deficit countries (LIFDCs) increase food production and improve access to food in order to meet growing market demand and eradicate food insecurity.
The SPFS uses a participatory approach that is environmentally responsible and socially equitable. The ultimate goal is to improve the living conditions of the poorest in rural areas, focusing particularly on women.
As of May 2001, the Special Programme for Food Security was operational in 62 countries.
The Special Programme for Food Security is an effective means of follow up to the goals of the World Summit Plan of Action and offers great opportunities for joint cooperation and action at the country level.
Inter-agency collaboration was strengthened recently with the signing of agreements between FAO and the other UN Rome-based food agencies, the World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). FAO's Director-General, Mr Jacques Diouf and WFP Executive Director, Ms Catherine Bertini signed an agreement to expand their existing cooperative activities related to the Special Programme for Food Security (SPFS), while an agreement signed by Mr Jacques Diouf and the President of IFAD, Mr Fawzi Al-Sultan, underlined the need to boost food production and increase access to food in low-income food-deficit countries in the context of the SPFS. The two agencies agreed to cooperate more closely in the field and to use existing joint operations as a basis for developing further collaborative activities.
Thematic Groups can support activities at the preparation, formulation and implementation stages of the Special Programme; from assisting in the selection of pilot zones to visiting field sites, disseminating information, monitoring progress and report writing.