ICBA Emphasises Sustainable Agriculture Commitment On World Food Day With Global Initiatives

On World Food Day, 16th October, the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) highlighted its efforts in tackling global food security and sustainable agriculture issues. ICBA is dedicated to improving food security and agricultural productivity in saline and arid regions through scientific innovation.

ICBA's research focuses on managing natural resources in arid and saline environments, climate change adaptation, crop improvement, and integrated agri-aquaculture systems. These themes guide ICBA's innovative approach to sustainable agriculture. The centre has introduced 24 technologies and crops across about 30 countries.

Located in Dubai, ICBA's gene bank holds one of the largest collections of germplasm globally. It contains over 17,000 accessions from around 325 plant species sourced from more than 150 countries. This collection includes significant amounts of barley and quinoa, crucial for research aimed at enhancing crop resilience under changing climate conditions.

ICBA distributes these genetic resources worldwide to support scientific research and capacity-building initiatives. The gene bank also plays a key role in preserving plant diversity within the UAE by collecting and conserving local species for future agricultural innovation.

Through its capacity development programs, ICBA has trained over 19,000 participants. These programs include collaborative research, technical training, and internships that prepare emerging scientists to address salinity and arid climate challenges.

Empowering Women and Youth

ICBA places a strong emphasis on empowering youth and women in agriculture. Initiatives like the Arab Women Leaders in Agriculture (AWLA) encourage collaboration among women researchers in the Middle East and North Africa to tackle agricultural challenges.

The Women Alliance for Climate Action in Agriculture (WACAA), launched during COP28 with a target of reaching 1 million women, promotes climate-smart agricultural practices among women. Additionally, the ICBA Youth Engagement Society (ICBA YES) connects young people globally to collaborate on food security issues.

Collaborations and Global Partnerships

The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) UAE 2023 was organised by ICBA with partners as a platform for young leaders to engage with experts on climate solutions. This event aligns with ICBA's mission by bringing together around 200 participants committed to environmental action.

ICBA collaborates with over 70 organisations across 50 countries to address global food, water, and nutrition security challenges. Since its inception, ICBA has conducted research-for-development activities in approximately 55 countries across various regions including Central Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, the South Caucasus, and sub-Saharan Africa.

Strategic Framework for Future Goals

ICBA continues expanding its global partnerships by participating in international forums focused on food security and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These platforms facilitate dialogue with key stakeholders allowing ICBA to share expertise in developing data-driven strategies tailored to regional challenges.

The centre offers consultancy services for companies testing agricultural products or technologies in arid environments. This is supported by ICBA’s technology testing platforms where solutions are scientifically validated before wide-scale distribution.

Under its strategic framework for 2034, ICBA aims to become a global hub for agricultural data intelligence in saline environments. By focusing on women's empowerment, biodiversity conservation, and resilient agricultural systems, ICBA remains committed to addressing food security challenges globally.

With inputs from WAM