MoCCAE Engages Farmers To Enhance Agricultural Productivity In Eastern Region Initiatives

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) recently convened with farmers from the Eastern Region. This meeting, held at the Hanging Gardens in Kalba, aimed to boost cooperation and communication with farmers nationwide. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, alongside other ministry officials, led discussions on enhancing crop productivity and addressing future agricultural needs.

Farmers were introduced to the ‘Plant the Emirates’ National Programme and the National Agriculture Centre. These initiatives, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aim to advance agricultural development and promote sustainable food security in the UAE. They also seek to foster partnerships with the private sector and expand green spaces sustainably.

Dr. Al Dahak emphasised the importance of these initiatives in achieving sustainable food security. She stated, "The launch of the ‘Plant the Emirates’ National Programme and the National Agriculture Centre by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum represents a significant milestone in the UAE's pursuit of sustainable food security." She highlighted that engaging various stakeholders is crucial for prioritising agriculture in the UAE’s future.

The meeting facilitated open dialogue between ministry officials and farmers. This platform allowed farmers to express their priorities and influence the efforts of the National Agriculture Centre. Discussions focused on empowering farmers to enhance productivity using modern climate-smart technology while improving service quality provided by the Ministry.

Farmers voiced their need for more support to boost productivity, especially for certain crops. Ministry officials assured them of existing support channels and plans to expand these soon. The launch of the National Agriculture Centre is expected to enhance support significantly, particularly for strategic crop production.

Objectives for Agricultural Growth

Key objectives of the ‘Plant the Emirates’ programme include increasing agricultural productivity and expanding organic farms. It also aims to promote modern climate-smart agriculture solutions while providing training, advisory, and financing programmes for projects. Engaging federal authorities, local entities, private sectors, and communities is essential for strengthening the agricultural ecosystem.

The meeting showcased high-quality crops grown locally, demonstrating local farms' potential to meet demand significantly. Attendees praised these crops' competitive quality and nutritional value, reflecting satisfaction with local agricultural capabilities.

Dr. Al Dahak concluded by expressing confidence in UAE farmers' ability to produce necessary food domestically. She said, "The UAE places great trust in its farmers. We are confident that we have the capability to produce the food we need from our own land." This sentiment underscores a collective effort towards achieving national food security goals through collaboration with farmers across the country.

With inputs from WAM