In line with the 2024 World Food Day theme, “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future,” ne’ma, the UAE’s National Food Loss and Waste Initiative, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE).
The agreement aims to reduce food loss and waste by 50 percent by 2030, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 and the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051.
The MoU signing, attended by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, took place during a high-profile UAE delegation visit to Japan. The partnership will enable the UAE to implement strategies inspired by Japan’s best practices in food waste management, enhancing ne'ma’s efforts toward sustainability.
Khuloud Hasan Al Nuwais, Chief Sustainability Officer of Emirates Foundation and ne’ma Committee Secretary-General, praised the partnership, highlighting the significance of sharing knowledge to foster sustainable food practices in the UAE.
This collaboration builds on a 2023 joint initiative between ne’ma and JICE, which launched “The ne’ma 7 Days Diary” to raise awareness of food waste among students in Abu Dhabi.
Yoshida Kozo, President of JICE, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing its role in strengthening international ties while addressing global food waste challenges.
The UAE delegation's visit also explored Japan’s food waste reduction initiatives, including meetings with Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency and a tour of Toyosu Market, one of the largest fish markets in the world. The visit marked an important step toward advancing the UAE's circular economy goals and waste management strategies.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
