FAO commends launch of 'Plant the Emirates' national programme for sustainable agriculture

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has expressed strong support for the United Arab Emirates' newly launched "Plant the Emirates" national programme, initiated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

The programme aims to significantly bolster agricultural development and enhance food security across the nation.

Unveiled during a Cabinet meeting in Dubai's Al Marmoom region, the initiative aligns with the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's legacy, promoting a culture of agriculture in homes and schools. This forward-thinking approach seeks to engage younger generations in sustainable practices, ensuring a secure food future for all.

A cornerstone of this initiative is the establishment of the National Agricultural Center, which is poised to drive innovation and forge vital partnerships within the agricultural sector.

The National Agricultural Center will focus on improving agricultural productivity and sustainability, supporting the UAE's strategic goals for food security, and positioning the nation as a regional leader in agricultural excellence.

"The 'Plant the Emirates' initiative is a vital step toward ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region," said Kayan Akram Jaff, Head of Mission of the Food and Agriculture Organization Subregional Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council and Yemen, which is based in the UAE. "We commend the United Arab Emirates' leadership for its commitment to fostering a resilient agricultural sector that not only feeds its people but also contributes to global sustainability efforts. We eagerly anticipate the positive outcomes this initiative will yield."

Jaff emphasised that the ambitious targets for the National Agricultural Center, such as increasing productive farms by 20 percent, boosting organic farms by 25 percent, adopting climate-smart practices in 30 percent of farms, and reducing agricultural waste by 50 percent by 2030, reflect the UAE's commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring sustainable food security.

The "Plant the Emirates" programme emphasises the importance of local food production, aiming to reduce reliance on imports while fostering environmental sustainability. By involving a wide range of stakeholders – from government agencies to local communities – the initiative seeks to create a unified approach to agricultural development that can serve as a model for other nations.