UAE’s ‘Plant the Emirates’ Initiative Gains Support from FAO
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has expressed strong support for the UAE’s new “Plant the Emirates” national programme. This initiative, launched by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to boost agricultural development and food security in the UAE. It was unveiled during a Cabinet meeting in Dubai’s Al Marmoom region and aligns with the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, promoting agricultural culture in homes and schools.
National Agricultural Center
A key component of the programme is the establishment of the National Agricultural Center, which will focus on innovation and partnerships in agriculture. The center aims to enhance productivity and sustainability, supporting the UAE’s food security goals and establishing the nation as a leader in agricultural excellence.
FAO’s Support
Kayan Akram Jaff, Head of Mission of the FAO Subregional Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council and Yemen, praised the initiative as a vital step for food security and sustainability. He highlighted ambitious targets for the National Agricultural Center, including increasing productive farms by 20%, boosting organic farms by 25%, adopting climate-smart practices in 30% of farms, and reducing agricultural waste by 50% by 2030.
The “Plant the Emirates” programme emphasizes local food production to reduce import reliance and promote environmental sustainability. It involves various stakeholders, aiming to create a cohesive approach to agricultural development that could serve as a model for other countries.
Doubts Revealed
UAE -: UAE stands for the United Arab Emirates, which is a country in the Middle East. It is known for its modern cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Plant the Emirates -: This is a programme started in the UAE to encourage people to grow plants and improve farming. It helps make sure there is enough food for everyone.
FAO -: FAO stands for the Food and Agriculture Organisation. It is a part of the United Nations that helps countries improve farming and food supply.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum -: He is a leader in the UAE, specifically the ruler of Dubai. He helps make important decisions for the country.
National Agricultural Center -: This is a place in the UAE that focuses on improving farming techniques and creating partnerships to make farming better.
Kayan Akram Jaff -: Kayan Akram Jaff is a person from the FAO who supports the ‘Plant the Emirates’ initiative. He believes the programme has great goals for the future.
Organic farms -: These are farms that grow food without using harmful chemicals. They are better for the environment and for people’s health.
Reducing waste by 2030 -: This means the programme aims to cut down on the amount of food and resources that are thrown away by the year 2030.
