The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) held a virtual introductory meeting today to introduce the newly established 'National Agriculture Centre,' a key initiative under the ‘Plant the Emirates’ National Programme. The meeting, attended by numerous UAE farmers, focused on the Centre’s role in enhancing agricultural production and food security in the country.
The Centre, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, aims to support local agriculture through various incentive programmes. The initiative seeks to boost sustainable food security, foster public-private partnerships, and expand green spaces across the UAE.
Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Food Diversity Sector at MOCCAE, led the meeting, highlighting the Centre's mission to tackle agricultural challenges. He emphasized the Centre’s focus on increasing farm productivity by 20%, growing organic farming by 25%, adopting climate-smart practices, and halving agricultural waste.
Dr. Al Hammadi also revealed that the Centre would offer grants, advanced training, and technical advisory services to support farmers. It will also promote research, foster innovation, and encourage the consumption of locally produced goods through partnerships with the private sector.
Farmers expressed optimism about the Centre’s potential to enhance local agriculture, emphasizing their commitment to adopting modern agricultural methods. They also discussed the significance of the Centre's initiatives in raising awareness and increasing the competitiveness of UAE-grown products in the market.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
