Sheikha Shamma Visits ICBA, Highlights Importance of Climate Resilience and Sustainable Agriculture
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), visited the International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) to explore its innovative research and strategic efforts in addressing challenges related to agriculture and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Tarifa Al Zaabi, Director General of ICBA, warmly welcomed Sheikha Shamma, expressing gratitude for her visit and highlighting ICBA’s significant contributions to global food security through groundbreaking research in biosaline agriculture and strategic partnerships.
Sheikha Shamma underscored the importance of equipping communities, particularly women and local leaders, with the tools and knowledge needed to adapt to climate change. “Scientific research plays a critical role in creating scalable, impactful solutions that mitigate climate risks and enhance resilience at every level. This is about building a foundation for sustainable progress, with local communities actively shaping solutions for our shared future,” she said.
Dr. Al Zaabi emphasized ICBA’s dedication to advancing sustainability in agriculture, aligning its efforts with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future and global frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals. “The visit underscores the importance of collaboration in addressing challenges of climate resilience and sustainable agriculture. ICBA remains committed to developing initiatives that make a lasting impact on farming communities worldwide,” she noted.
During the visit, ICBA presented its key projects, including innovations in carbon credit systems, biochar production, and composting using local resources. The center’s preparations for COP29 and COP16 were also discussed, building on its impactful presence at COP28 to advance global climate dialogues. Special emphasis was placed on empowering women and engaging youth in sustainable agriculture to foster resilient communities and nurture future leaders.
Sheikha Shamma toured ICBA’s facilities, including the Date Palm Fields, Forage Fields, Gene Bank, and Emirates Soil Museum, gaining insights into its efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in arid and saline environments.
The visit highlighted ICBA’s commitment to driving impactful solutions for climate resilience, sustainable agricultural practices, and community empowerment. ICBA reaffirmed its resolve to collaborate with stakeholders in creating a sustainable and resilient future for the UAE and beyond.
