Abu Dhabi: Mohammed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), has announced the commencement of operations at the National Agriculture Centre, a pivotal project under the 'Plant the Emirates' National Programme. The Centre is set to advance Emirati agricultural support, production quality, and market competitiveness for UAE-grown food.
According to Emirates News Agency, the announcement was made during the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition at the ADNEC Centre Al Ain, an event patronized by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The conference, which runs until May 31, 2025, features participation from various sectors, including government, private organisations, and local farmers.
The Centre aims for ambitious targets such as a 20% rise in productive farms, a 25% increase in organic farms, and a 30% share in climate-smart agriculture, alongside halving agricultural waste. It will also spearhead initiatives for technological innovation, modern farming practices, and provide training and consultancy services to farmers.
Sultan Salem Al Shamsi has been appointed as the Director of the National Agriculture Centre. Al Shamsi brings a 26-year career spanning agricultural value chains, project management, technology, and finance. Al Nuaimi highlighted Al Shamsi's leadership and contributions to the agricultural sector, particularly in smart agriculture and sustainable practices.
Al Nuaimi emphasized the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's vision for a robust agricultural sector. Sheikh Zayed's investments laid the foundation for a skilled agricultural workforce and research infrastructure that has facilitated the UAE's rapid agricultural expansion.
The conference hosted a panel discussion on the Centre's future vision chaired by Al Shamsi, featuring prominent figures like Al Nuaimi and other industry leaders. Discussions focused on strategies to support Emirati farmers and enhance national food security through innovation and partnerships.
The Ministry invites all interested parties to engage in the event through its official website, promoting the 'Plant the Emirates' Programme, which aligns with Sheikh Zayed's vision for green spaces and sustainable food security across the UAE.