WFF Indonesia Chapter at CFS 52: Inclusive Youth Engagement and Empowerment for Agrifood Systems Transformation

Risma Rizkia Nurdianti served as a youth representative and the Head of Science and Innovation at the World Food Forum (WFF) Indonesia Chapter. She was a speaker at the Committee on World Food Security (CFS 52) event, which was held virtually. This year's sessions highlighted the 2024 State of Food Security and Nutrition report and the endorsement of CFS products developed during the intersessional period, updates to the CFS Multi-Year Programme of Work for 2024-2027. The sessions also showcased the High-Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition (HLPE-FSN) report focusing on "Strengthening urban and peri-urban food systems to achieve food security and nutrition amid urbanization and rural transformation," along with other ongoing CFS initiatives and priorities.

During her presentation, Risma provided valuable insights into honey farming initiatives spearheaded by Indonesian youth, highlighting their achievements in both business and environmental sustainability. She introduced three exemplary young entrepreneurs: Dorel Efendi, founder of Madunia since 2022; M. Nibraasuddiin, founder of Neebee since 2020; and Andri Fahruzi, founder of Madu Klanceng since 2020. Each of these individuals has successfully created economic opportunities while fostering strong partnerships with local communities to promote sustainable business practices.

Risma illustrated how honeybee enterprises significantly contribute to local economic development, ecological conservation and food security, emphasizing that these three young entrepreneurs prioritize not only the production of high-quality honey but also the sustainability of local ecosystems through responsible beekeeping practices. By promoting ecological conservation, they enhance local biodiversity while improving the economic welfare of surrounding communities. Furthermore, they have utilized social media and e-commerce platforms to broaden their market reach, making honey farming a more attractive business opportunity for the younger generation.

Each young entrepreneur employs a distinct approach to managing their honeybee businesses. Dorel Efendi collaborates with local farmers and honey hunters to ensure product quality and sustainability, while M. Nibraasuddiin draws on the expertise of experienced beekeepers to maintain high standards. Andri Fahruzi, on the other hand, utilizes local resources to develop his honey enterprise. Their partnerships with local communities highlight the significance of collaboration in fostering sustainable and environmentally friendly beekeeping practices. It emphasizes the strong connection between beekeeping and food sustainability, noting that honey production promotes biodiversity without harming ecosystems. This aligns with the goals of healthy and nutritious diets, as honey serves not only as a natural sweetener but also as a component of sustainable agricultural practices, ultimately contributing to food security and nutritional safety in Indonesia.

However, Risma acknowledged the significant challenges facing the industry. Honey production in Indonesia meets only 27% of national demand, leaving a substantial 73% gap that still needs to be filled. This gap presents not only a challenge but also a vast opportunity to create new jobs and develop the beekeeping market, especially for youth. By addressing this gap, the initiatives of these young people can drive economic growth while increasing the availability of honey and other bee products, thereby supporting local diets and economic resilience.

The honey farming initiatives led by Indonesian youth exemplify how the younger generation can drive sustainable development through a blend of traditional practices and modern innovations. These efforts enhance biodiversity and climate resilience while supporting healthy diets with nutritious natural products. By harnessing the economic potential of honeybee enterprises, Indonesian youth play a crucial role in building a sustainable agricultural future and ensuring food security. "For me, for us, good food for all, for today, for tomorrow," Risma stated, closing her session at CFS 52.