MoCCAE Graduation Ceremony Highlights Women's Significant Contributions To Agriculture In The UAE

The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE), in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), recently celebrated the graduation of participants from the Farmer Field Schools programme. This initiative underscores the notable contributions of women in the UAE's agricultural sector. The programme concentrated on managing the Red Palm Weevil (RPW) and cultivating date palms, involving five schools across Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.

A total of 48 individuals took part, including eight female farm owners and managers who joined for the first time. They gained essential skills and knowledge, marking a significant step forward in women's involvement in agricultural management. Dr. Mohamed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary of Food Diversity at MoCCAE, expressed pride in supporting initiatives that empower women and encourage farmer collaboration.

Dr. Al Hammadi highlighted the UAE's launch of the 'Plant the Emirates' national programme and the 'National Agriculture Centre' as crucial efforts to address agricultural challenges. These initiatives reflect a commitment to enhancing resilience and sustainability within the country's agriculture sector.

The Farmer Field School programme demonstrates the UAE's dedication to promoting sustainable farming practices and empowering local farmers. By offering practical training, farmers are now better equipped to identify, monitor, and manage RPW, contributing to a more resilient date palm industry in the region.

Kayan Akram Jaff, Head of Mission of the FAO Subregional Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council States and Yemen, stated that this programme not only provides farmers with practical skills but also highlights women's vital role in agriculture. Their participation represents a progressive move towards sustainable farming practices.

Community Engagement Against RPW

Thaer Yaseen, FAO Senior Plant Protection Officer leading the RPW project, noted that community engagement is crucial for managing RPW effectively. "The successful implementation of this program highlights the importance of community engagement in managing the Red Palm Weevil," he said. "Through collaboration and shared knowledge, we can effectively combat this pest and safeguard our date palm resources."

Significant achievements from this programme include increased awareness about RPW's impact on date palm cultivation, improved agricultural practices resulting in better yields and healthier palms, and strengthened collaboration among farmers. These outcomes foster empowerment and resilience within the farming community.

The graduation ceremony symbolises a commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture in the UAE while recognising women's growing influence in this field. As these initiatives continue to evolve, they promise to further enhance agricultural resilience across the nation.

With inputs from WAM