WASHINGTON — Friends of the World Food Program (Friends of W.F.P.) announced on Sept. 10 the official launch of the Business Council to End Global Hunger, which Cargill and Yum! Brands will lead for the U.S. private sector. The Business Council to End Global Hunger will encourage trade associations, companies and other private sector entities in the United States to support the Roadmap to End Global Hunger — an advocacy initiative laying out a comprehensive strategy for the U.S. government to set the stage for a permanent end to global hunger and poverty.

The Business Council to End Global Hunger supports specific action and funding levels designed for the U.S. government. The Friends of W.F.P. said these recommendations will address urgent hunger needs in the short term, while laying the foundation for long-term solutions.

"We proudly welcome the leadership of both Cargill and Yum! Brands," said Karen Sendelback, president and chief executive officer, Friends of W.F.P. "These companies’ leadership and commitment symbolize what we hope will be a growing movement in the private sector to urge the government to take broader action and address global hunger beyond just food assistance."

Paul Conway, senior vice-president, who is leading Cargill’s work with the Business Council to End Global Hunger, added, "At Cargill, we’re committed to applying our global knowledge and experience to help meet complex challenges such as global hunger. We recognize this is an issue too large for any one party to solve alone. We welcome the opportunity to partner with others on this critical initiative that is so consistent with Cargill’s purpose of nourishing people."