“Every government and every organization everywhere should put enormous energy into ensuring that people are well nourished, because that quite simply is one of the most powerful ways to ensure that they can give the greatest possible intellectual and physical contribution to the future of their communities and nations.”
David Nabarro, 2018, video remarks for the “Accelerating the End of Hunger and Malnutrition” conference.
It is with deep sadness that we share news of the passing of Sir David Nabarro, 2018 World Food Prize laureate and tireless global health advocate. David dedicated his life to advancing health and nutrition for all, with an unwavering focus on reaching the most vulnerable. Trained as a physician, he brought his expertise to senior leadership roles at the United Nations and played pivotal roles in responding to major global health crises, including Ebola and COVID-19. He also led and advised numerous mission-driven organizations committed to ending hunger and malnutrition.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, David was deeply respected and admired for his warmth, humility, and generosity of spirit. Many of us at IFPRI had the privilege of working with David over the years on many projects, and we are grateful for his insights, kindness, and enduring legacy.
- Listen to David Nabarro’s Martin J. Forman Memorial Lecture at IFPRI in 2010.
- Listen here to his remarks during the 2018 IFPRI-FAO global conference on “Accelerating the End of Hunger and Malnutrition” in Bangkok.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and to all who knew and loved him. May his life of service continue to inspire us all.

Photo: David Nabarro speaking at the IFPRI-FAO Global Conference “Accelerating the End of Hunger and Malnutrition” on 28-30 November, 2018, Bangkok, Thailand.



