Essam Yassin Mohammed
As 2024 comes to a close, I have been reflecting on a year filled with progress, challenges, and big conversations. Many of these took centre stage at COP29 in Baku, where WorldFish seized the opportunity to spotlight the potential of aquatic foods as a critical part of the solution to the climate crisis.
COP29 highlighted the urgent need for climate justice. While developed countries agreed on a new climate finance goal of 300 billion dollars per year by 2035, this falls far short of the resources truly needed to protect the communities most affected by climate change. This gap emphasizes the importance of strategic investment. At WorldFish, we believe that aquatic food systems offer some of the most impactful and cost-effective solutions available.
The 300 billion dollar annual commitment, while seemingly substantial, pales in comparison to the over 800 billion dollars that continue to flow as subsidies into agriculture globally each year—many of which fuel harmful practices that degrade the environment and exacerbate climate change. It is disheartening to see such a lack of commitment and responsibility from the wealthiest nations, especially when repurposing just a fraction of these subsidies could drive transformative solutions. Imagine the impact if these funds supported sustainable aquatic food systems, climate resilience, and equitable food access instead of perpetuating outdated and harmful approaches.
As we turn toward 2025, we prepare to celebrate a remarkable milestone as WorldFish marks its 50th anniversary. This is not just a time to reflect on our legacy but an opportunity to strengthen our efforts to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. Over the past five decades, WorldFish has driven innovations in sustainable aquaculture, fisheries management, and food systems research, improving millions of lives and ensuring that aquatic foods play a vital role in addressing global challenges.
From advancing gender equity and fostering biodiversity to enhancing food security, improving nutrition, supporting livelihoods, strengthening climate resilience, and driving innovations in genetics and health, WorldFish remains committed to delivering solutions that benefit both people and the planet. As we enter this milestone year, we will continue to push boundaries, scale impactful innovations, and strengthen partnerships that drive lasting change.
To everyone who has supported WorldFish, including our partners, team, and global community, thank you for being part of this journey. In 2025, we look forward to celebrating 50 years of impact and laying the foundation for a future where aquatic foods are central to creating a more sustainable, just, and equitable world.
Here's to a transformative year ahead.