UAE To Establish First Regional Centre Of Excellence For Food Security In Partnership With FAO

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) collaborated with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) to host a workshop in Dubai. A significant outcome was announcing the UAE as the host for the first Regional Centre of Excellence for Transforming Food Systems. This centre aims to innovate and strategically transform food systems across the region.

The event aimed to boost cooperation between FAO and the UAE, focusing on sustainable national food security initiatives. It also addressed challenges aligned with the strategic goals of the FAO Subregional Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council States and Yemen. The workshop gathered officials from FAO, MOCCAE, local authorities, academic institutions, and private sector experts in food and agriculture.

Participants discussed expectations between MOCCAE and FAO regarding the structure and mission of the FAO Subregional Office. They aimed to foster mutual understanding of priorities and aspirations. Discussions focused on collaboration mechanisms, resources needed, and identifying key partnership areas. Attendees reviewed common challenges in food security and agriculture while exploring potential solutions.

Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hamadi, Assistant Undersecretary for Food Diversity at MOCCAE, highlighted that improving food security depends on supporting a strong agricultural sector with modern technologies. He mentioned initiatives like "Plant the Emirates" and the "National Agricultural Centre," which unite stakeholders to address agricultural challenges in the UAE.

He emphasised that these initiatives provide comprehensive support to local farmers while enhancing smart technologies to boost local agricultural production's quality and competitiveness. Dr. Al Hamadi affirmed that FAO will play a crucial role in supporting these national programmes, expressing confidence in ongoing collaboration with FAO.

Kayan Akram Jaff, Head of Mission at FAO Subregional Office for GCC States and Yemen, stated: "The Food and Agriculture Organisation is dedicated to supporting the United Arab Emirates in addressing food security challenges. Our partnership will focus on strategic initiatives that align with our mutual objectives and the priorities of the United Arab Emirates."

MOCCAE and FAO reiterated their commitment to developing a clear roadmap for collaboration in food security and agricultural practices during discussions. This strategic partnership aims to enhance regional food security while advancing the mission of the FAO Subregional Office.

The workshop underscored MOCCAE's dedication to identifying challenges, finding practical solutions, and implementing them effectively. The collaboration between MOCCAE and FAO is expected to advance agriculture by engaging all relevant stakeholders in addressing these issues comprehensively.

With inputs from WAM