Arab News Japan

ABU DHABI: A roundtable discussion on the challenges of food security and the concerns of the national food security in the UAE were part of an event organized by AmCham Abu Dhabi and sponsored by Elite Agro Projects LLC.

The discussion, titled “Roundtable on Food Security as a Cornerstone of National Security in a Changing Global Landscape,” brought together leading experts in technology and agriculture.

The roundtable underscored the pivotal role of food security as an indispensable pillar of the nation’s security fabric, particularly in light of recent global events exposing vulnerabilities in food supply chains.

The keynote address by Hassan Halawy, Co-Chair of the Tech & Innovation Committee at AmCham Abu Dhabi and General Manager of Elite Agro Projects, highlighted the imperative of fortifying the nation’s resilience against future food disruptions emphasizing the critical role of technology in addressing challenges, from sustainable production to optimized supply chains. The UAE’s strategic planning has already positioned it 23rd on the Global Food Security Index in 2022, with aspirations to lead globally by 2051.

“In the wake of recent global events, the vulnerabilities in our food supply chains have been exposed. These occurrences have elevated the critical importance of food security, transcending its role as a mere element of our national well-being to become an indispensable pillar of our nation’s security fabric,” he said. 

Halawy added: “Advancements in technology, ranging from Fintech to Genetics, offer transparent solutions that enhance food system security. The purpose of the roundtable was to delve into the potential, envisage solutions, and open new avenues for constructing a comprehensive plan to fortify resilience against future food disruptions. The collaboration and presence of esteemed guests at this roundtable event reflects a commitment to shaping a comprehensive plan for a resilient and secure food future. Together, we aim to create an impactful action plan for our nation and the global community.”

Attendees actively engaged in discussions, unveiling strategies for a more robust future. The event emphasized the transformative role of technology, especially AgTech, in fortifying food security efforts.

A second panel discussed the framework for utilizing technologies, with experts delving into the selection, roadmaps, strategies, stakeholders, and the pivotal role of big tech.

The panel focused on the strategic integration of technologies for improved food security with local and international Tech Companies like Presight, Bayanat, WWT and Oracle.

Experts discussed the transformative impact of AI in agriculture, emphasizing its role in converting data into actionable insights. IoT and AI were highlighted for their efficiency in processing vast amounts of data, enhancing global and regional food security through predictive analytics.

Ethical considerations, such as data privacy and fairness in AI applications, were deemed crucial.

As a summary and closing note, a recommendation for a white paper summarizing the discussions and expert opinions, along with an actionable work plan, was suggested.

This white paper aims to guide policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders in fostering a more sustainable and secure future for agriculture. The recommendations underscored the importance of prioritizing not just food security but food sovereignty, advocating for strategic agriculture financing, recognizing the interconnectedness of water, energy, and food production, and urging the adoption of environmental accounting to manage the impact of agricultural practices.