Government

Plant the Emirates: A Program To Support UAE’s Agriculture Growth

The Plant the Emirates program was launched to enhance agricultural development and national food security.
Image provided by Emirates News Agency – WAM.

Key Takeaways:

  • The “Plant the Emirates” program was launched to enhance agricultural development and national food security.
  • It aims to encourage local agriculture, expand green spaces, and promote environmental sustainability.
  • A new National Agriculture Centre will provide support for technological and agricultural advancements.
  • The program involves government, private sector, and community collaboration to drive its initiatives.
  • Goals include increasing the number of productive and organic farms and reducing agricultural waste.

Program Announcement and Objectives

The UAE has introduced the “Plant the Emirates” national program, aimed at advancing agricultural development and strengthening the country’s food security. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, announced the program during a UAE Cabinet meeting held in Al Marmoom, Dubai.

The program’s main objectives include promoting agriculture across schools, homes, and communities, encouraging the practice of local farming, expanding green spaces, and supporting broader environmental sustainability efforts.

National Agriculture Centre

A key part of the “Plant the Emirates” initiative is the establishment of the National Agriculture Centre. The centre will focus on providing technical support for the agricultural sector, promoting modern farming technologies, and facilitating partnerships between government, private sector, and community members.

The centre is tasked with enhancing productivity in the agricultural sector, reducing production costs, and minimizing agricultural waste. It will also promote the use of local agricultural products by supporting their marketing and distribution.

Five-Year Targets

Over the next five years, the program aims to achieve several ambitious targets:

  • Increase the number of productive farms in the UAE by 20%.
  • Boost the number of organic farms by 25%.
  • Encourage climate-smart farming practices across 30% of farms.
  • Reduce agricultural waste by 50%.
  • Promote the use of local agricultural products in restaurants and hotels.

Focus on Sustainability and Food Security

The “Plant the Emirates” program is closely aligned with the UAE’s broader vision to improve food security and sustainability. By encouraging the cultivation of local crops and promoting sustainable farming practices, the program is expected to reduce the UAE’s dependence on imported food.

In addition, the initiative aims to lower the country’s carbon footprint by promoting locally grown produce, which will help mitigate environmental impacts.

Community Involvement and Collaboration

The success of the “Plant the Emirates” program will rely heavily on collaboration between government entities, private sector organizations, and the community. The program will launch several national campaigns, seasonal markets, and events to engage the public, raise awareness about local agriculture, and promote smart farming practices.

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