In a landmark achievement for Egypt’s development sector, the Egyptian Food Bank (EFB) has been awarded the prestigious Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Award, becoming the first Egyptian development organization to receive this international recognition. The announcement was made during an official ceremony held at the FAO headquarters in Rome, as part of the 2025 FAO Conference, running from June 28 to July 4.
The Egyptian Food Bank was selected among 69 distinguished organizations from 37 countries, in recognition of its leadership in combating hunger and advancing food security in Egypt and the region. The award was received by Mohsen Sarhan, CEO of the Egyptian Food Bank, who represented the organization during the ceremony.
Founded in 2004, the Egyptian Food Bank has grown into a pioneering force in the fight against food insecurity, with a mission to eliminate hunger through sustainable, scalable, and community-driven solutions. The FAO’s recognition underscores the organization’s impactful contributions to food security, in alignment with global efforts to raise awareness and implement practical solutions to hunger and malnutrition.
The FAO selection process is based on strict criteria, including demonstrable positive impact on individuals and communities, the ability to engage local populations in sustainable development, and the successful implementation of innovative programs with measurable, transparent outcomes.
Over the past two decades, the Egyptian Food Bank has built a comprehensive model to ensure food security for Egypt’s most vulnerable populations. Its efforts extend beyond food distribution to include support for small-scale farmers, partnerships with local and international entities, and initiatives aimed at reducing food loss and waste. The organization has also played a vital role in supporting Palestinian families residing in Egypt, reflecting its broader humanitarian and regional commitment.
Commenting on the award, Mohsen Sarhan said, “This recognition from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization is not only a tribute to our work but also to the collective efforts of partners, institutions, and individuals who believe in our mission. It is a reminder that while the fight against hunger continues, together we can make measurable, lasting change.”
Sarhan dedicated the award to all contributors to the organization’s mission, with a heartfelt tribute to mothers, whose daily efforts to feed their families embody the true spirit of resilience. He emphasized that the award marks not an endpoint, but a renewed commitment to confront hunger with greater innovation, experience, and partnership.
Since its establishment, the Egyptian Food Bank has improved the lives of millions through an integrated system that ensures equitable food access, guided by robust data and efficient operations. The FAO Award affirms the success of Egypt’s approach to addressing food insecurity and highlights its potential as a model for replication and global cooperation in the fight against hunger.
