Amna Al Dahak Promotes Community Engagement in Sharjah for ‘Plant the Emirates’ Initiative

Sharjah: Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, visited Sharjah to promote community participation in the 'Plant the Emirates' National Programme, underscoring the UAE's commitment to sustainable food security. Her tour included planting events and a visit to a key wheat farm in Maliha, part of efforts to bolster the nation's agricultural development and green spaces. According to Emirates News Agency, the 'Plant the Emirates' initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is designed to support agricultural growth, enhance food security, and forge private sector partnerships. Dr. Al Dahak emphasized the program as a continuation of the UAE's founding vision to engage communities in sustainable practices, noting the global trend towards community-driven food security through responsible consumption and cultivation. Dr. Al Dahak's tour highlighted engagement with community groups and students in agricultural activities, showcasi ng a strong interest in modern farming techniques and research. The 'Agricultural Volunteer Programmes' she stressed, are integral to the initiative and will continue across the UAE in the coming months. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, highlighted the Ruler of Sharjah's vision to ensure local food security through increased production and agricultural technology. He emphasized the importance of the program in combating desertification and preserving resources. The tour featured high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and included an agricultural workshop with students at Victoria International School of Sharjah. Dr. Al Dahak underscored the need for youth involvement in agriculture to develop a skilled future workforce, aiming to enhance the UAE's food security. Her visit to the Maliha wheat farm, accompanied by media representatives, showcased strategic crop management and advanced farming technologies. Dr. Al Dahak ad vocated for expanded wheat cultivation and research to boost productivity, reinforcing the UAE's agricultural ambitions.