Amna Al Dahak Engages Community In Sharjah Through Plant The Emirates Programme Tour

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, recently toured Sharjah as part of the 'Plant the Emirates' National Programme. This initiative aims to engage communities in enhancing sustainable food security. During her visit, she participated in planting events and visited a wheat farm in Maliha.

The 'Plant the Emirates’ National Programme, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, seeks to support agricultural development and sustainable food security in the UAE. The programme also aims to foster partnerships with the private sector and expand green spaces across the nation.

Dr. Al Dahak emphasised that this initiative continues the legacy of the UAE's Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. She stated, "The 'Plant the Emirates’ National Programme marks a new phase in the legacy of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who inspired Emiratis to take part in planting and greening efforts across the UAE."

During her tour, Dr. Al Dahak engaged with various community groups, including students. She participated in agricultural activities and workshops designed to strengthen ties between communities and sustainable food security efforts. These activities are part of ongoing 'Agricultural Volunteer Programmes' under the national initiative.

At Maliha Pasture, Dr. Al Dahak joined students from Maliha School in planting native trees like Ghaf, Sidr, and Samar. This activity was followed by a visit to a wheat farm where she learned about advanced farming techniques used for wheat cultivation.

Technological Advancements in Farming

The wheat farm visit highlighted modern technologies employed in cultivation and management. Dr. Al Dahak stressed expanding wheat cultivation in the UAE through increased productivity and research. She noted that wheat is a strategic crop both locally and globally.

Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment (EKTIFA), remarked on Sharjah's vision for healthy food production: "The vision of Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi... aims to provide healthy and safe food."

Workshops for Future Generations

An agricultural workshop at Victoria International School of Sharjah involved youth students learning essential skills such as plant care and seedling preparation. Dr. Al Dahak highlighted the importance of involving youth in agriculture to develop future professionals and decision-makers.

The workshop aimed to equip students with knowledge about agriculture's role in ensuring food security within the UAE. Discussions with students from various educational backgrounds focused on agriculture's critical role.

Commitment to Food Security

The tour included several high-ranking officials from MoCCAE who supported Dr. Al Dahak’s initiatives during her visit. The focus remained on preserving plant resources while combating desertification—a priority for enhancing sustainable food security.

The national programme reflects ongoing efforts to support agricultural trends while ensuring resource sustainability across Sharjah and beyond.

With inputs from WAM