Food insecurity is also no longer a predominantly rural problem. Global hunger and the chronic inability to access food are skyrocketing — an estimated 2.4 billion people, including women, were deprived of safe, nutritious and sufficient food in 2022. 

While no country will reach the target of zero hunger, technological innovations, policies, and institutions will be critical in reshaping food systems for nutrition, health, and inclusion.

The UAE has implemented the objectives of the National Food Security Strategy to develop sustainable local production and promote smart technologies in food production. This week, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), the World Food Program (WFP), and the Food Tech Valley signed a MoU to strengthen innovation in food systems and agriculture. 

As per the MoU, the three parties will explore ways of cooperation to exchange information on key innovative initiatives while also sharing innovations that power the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs.)

“Modern food systems represent a major pillar in our endeavors to enhance national food security. We aim to share our experience with the world during COP28. The UAE encourages countries to sign the ‘Emirates Declaration on Resilient Food Systems, Sustainable Agriculture, and Climate Action’ to eliminate world hunger,” said Mohammed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.

Saying food security is a vital and strategic goal for the country, Hesham Al Qassim, Vice Chairman and CEO at Wasl, said, “Innovation and technology will help pave the way to achieve these goals.”

WFP’s Innovation Accelerator will work with Food Tech Valley and the ministry to achieve transformation in food systems and maximize the enablement and nurturing of water-smart and food systems innovations worldwide.

The agreement will mobilize funds and resources while also seeking to undertake studies, provide training, and conduct boot camps, research, seminars, workshops, meetings, and conferences.