DES MOINES, Iowa — A prominent organization based in Iowa dedicated to combating global hunger has announced a significant change in leadership as it seeks to broaden its international reach. The World Food Prize Foundation has revealed that Mashal Husain, who has been serving as the chief operating officer, will now take on the role of president. She succeeds Terry Branstad, the former U.S. ambassador to China and the previous governor of Iowa, who is stepping down from his position.
The World Food Prize was established by Norman Borlaug, an iconic figure from Iowa who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for his contributions to the “Green Revolution.” This movement led to a remarkable increase in agricultural production, significantly decreasing the risk of famine across many regions of the globe.
Husain, whose roots trace back to Pakistan, has also lived in various countries such as Tanzania, Thailand, and the Philippines. She believes that her international experience aligns perfectly with Borlaug’s mission and the foundation’s goal to enhance its initiatives across Africa, Asia, and other areas worldwide. Having been part of the foundation for 16 years, Husain expressed her deep connection with Borlaug’s vision. “Having grown up in different parts of the world, I’ve witnessed the realities of poverty and hunger firsthand since my childhood,” she remarked in a recent interview.
As the organization aims to amplify its impact internationally, it has initiated the creation of a new chief executive role. This individual will be responsible for fostering relationships with global leaders who focus on agriculture, food security, nutrition, and sustainable development.
In addition to expanding its reach, the foundation has been emphasizing educational initiatives targeting youth. Programs have been organized to engage high school students, educators, and experts in discussions around global hunger challenges, with events hosted in 24 states, as well as in The Netherlands and Honduras.
Every spring, the World Food Prize honors individuals with a substantial award of $500,000 presented to those who have made advancements in food security. This year, Cary Fowler and Geoffrey Hawtin were recognized for their efforts in establishing a global seed vault embedded within a Norwegian mountain.
The awardees are invited to share their insights at an extensive event held in the fall, consisting of a week filled with lectures, networking opportunities, and meetings in Des Moines.
Despite growing skepticism surrounding science and food production, Husain stated that the foundation remains steadfast in adhering to Borlaug’s philosophy of encouraging innovation and pursuing critical ideas. “Addressing world hunger transcends politics; it embodies a fundamental moral right,” Husain asserted. “Dr. Borlaug firmly believed that food should be a basic right for every individual born into this world.”
