The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Codex Coordinating Committees for Africa and the Near East, are leading an initiative to advance food safety competencies in the African, Near East, and Eastern Mediterranean regions.

The initiative was launched in response to a global food supply chain challenged by conflicts, economic volatility, and climate-related disruptions, which make it increasingly difficult for competent authorities to ensure food safety and compliance with international standards.

As part of the initiative, more than 350 regional representatives participated in an online training from May 19–21, 2026, focusing on enhancing effective engagement in the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), with technical support from the Codex Secretariat.

The program covered key aspects of Codex work, including the structure, governance, and standard-setting procedures of CAC, as well as the role of science, risk analysis, and the contribution of FAO/WHO expert bodies in informing evidence-based decisions. It also addressed the development and strengthening of national Codex frameworks, highlighting the importance of functional Codex contact points and national Codex committees for effective coordination across sectors.

Through practical case studies and country experiences, participants explored how different countries contribute to Codex processes, including the development of standards and the formulation of national positions. Dedicated sessions focused on sharing best practices and lessons learned from seven countries, showcasing approaches to national coordination, data generation, and stakeholder engagement that support stronger participation in Codex activities.

According to FAO/WHO, the initiative highlights growing cooperation between African and Mediterranean countries on food safety governance and science-based decision-making, including collaboration with regional institutions such as the African Union and the Arab Industrial Development, Standardization, and Mining Organization, strengthening alignment across regions.