Tom Harkin: “Each October, the eyes of the world appropriately turn to Des Moines for the presentation of the World Food Prize…”

“Each October, the eyes of the world appropriately turn to Des Moines for the presentation of the World Food Prize, called by the former President of Mexico, 'the Nobel Prize for Food.' Created by Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, each year on or around October 16-- World Food Day--representatives from more than 60 countries gather in the magnificent Iowa State Capitol to honor the newest laureate for his or her exceptional breakthrough achievements in increasing the quality, quantity or availability of food in the world. In past years, this honor has gone to individuals from India, Denmark, Brazil, China, and Sierra Leone. This year the winner is an American from Indiana. But no matter where they are from, all of these laureates have in common that they have reduced hunger and human suffering around the globe. It is most fitting that this weeklong celebration begins today, October 16 with the first ever Iowa Hunger Summit.”