In a social media post, Pullumbi said “World Food Day, a celebration observed in over 150 countries, and a moment that carries even greater significance this year: it is the 80th Anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).”

“As we look back, we celebrate significant progress – from pioneering global food safety standards to nearly tripling rice yields since the late 1940s. Yet, the work is far from over. As our Director-General, Dr. QU Dongyu, reminds us, the choice before us is clear: to keep moving forward or risk falling backward,” she said.

According to Pullumbi, “this year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” is a powerful call to collective action.”

She noted that transforming our agrifood systems, making them more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, cannot happen in isolation.

“Progress depends on what we do together, across institutions, across borders, and within our vibrant Albanian communities,” Pullumbi said.

Celebrating Our Food Heroes and Partnerships

Pullumbi underlined “here in Albania, we are witnessing this spirit of partnership in action.”

“We are proud to work alongside a dedicated network of Food Heroes, the Albanian farmers, local innovators, researchers, policymakers, and dedicated youth who wake up every day to strengthen our nation’s food production, improve nutrition, and protect our invaluable natural environment,” she said.

Pullumbi announced that FAO Albania is committed to this vision, which we channel through the Four Betters: Better Production, so our farmers can produce more with fewer resources; Better Nutrition, ensuring quality and affordability are priorities; a Better Environment, to sustain healthy ecosystems; and a Better Life for all, so rural communities can thrive with dignity and opportunity.

She stated that “to honor our shared journey and the path ahead, we are convening our high-level partners, collaborators, and national stakeholders for a special celebration at Fustanella Organic Farm.”

“This event, graced by the newly appointed Minister of Agriculture, the UN Resident Coordinator, and the FAO Representative in Albania, is a high-level testament to the unity and professionalism of the One FAO team in Albania and the strength of our national partnership. It is an opportunity to shed light on the crucial work being done across projects to build a more sustainable future for Albanian agriculture and strengthen national partnership in food security and rural development,” Pullumbi noted.

Running for the Right to Food: Join the Movement!

Pullumbi highlighted that celebration of this milestone extends beyond the conference halls and farms and into the streets of the Albanian capital.

“On Sunday, October 19, 2025, the FAO Albanian Team will join the Tirana Marathon. This is more than a race; it is a symbolic commitment. Our team will be running for a fundamental human right: the right to good, sustainable food for everyone,” she said.

She urged all Albanians, dedicated partners, UN colleagues, students, media professionals, and private sector leaders, to embrace this cause. “While our official team may have a participant cap, the movement knows no limits. Join us in spirit, cheer on the runners, and, most importantly, commit to transforming your own relationship with food,” she added.

Pullumbi underlined that “every choice we make – from what we buy to how we reduce waste—is a step toward a better future.

“Let us stand- or run – Hand in Hand to end hunger and ensure that healthy, diverse, and affordable food is a reality for every person in Albania. Join us in celebrating our national Food Heroes and championing this crucial cause,” Pullumbi concluded her message.

/e.xh/a.f/u.sh/