Global Food Security Act of 2013

Floor Speech

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, in the world's poorest countries, nearly 1 billion people struggle with hunger every day. Chronic food insecurity limits a child's ability to grow and to learn.

Across Africa and Asia, hardworking farmers need help producing enough food to feed their families throughout the year. Many of these farmers are women. In fact, it is estimated 80 percent of the agricultural workers are women.

Earlier this year, I traveled to Tanzania and South Sudan where women farmers told me that they needed access to better seeds, tools, and training. With assistance from the United States and with our support, they can grow enough food to feed their families and have extra to sell as produce.

Last week, I introduced the Global Food Security Act, along with Representatives Aaron Schock and Jim McGovern. This bill directs the President to develop a strategy to improve global nutrition, food security, and agricultural development. More than 35 NGOs and faith-based groups also support this bill.

This bill will improve food security for millions around the world, which is the right thing to do, but it will also make America more secure and protect our own national interest.

I urge my colleagues to support the Global Food Security Act.

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