Scientists, professors and experts from around the world gathered in Abu Dhabi to develop initiatives aimed at feeding the rapidly increasing global population, against a backdrop of dwindling resources and climate change.
The Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) organized the Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture (GFIA 2015), which included a program for scientists.
The event, held with the support of the Ministry of Presidential Affairs and Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, took place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center.
More than 200 scientists attended the program including Cather Simpson from the University of Auckland, New Zealand; Abdulrahman Saad A. Aldawood from King Saud University, Saudi Arabia; Francis Wambalaba from United States International University in Nairobi, Kenya; and Vladan Bogdanovic from the University of Belgrade in Serbia.
Thamer Al-Qasemi, director of the Communication and Community Service Division at ADFCA, said: “The response to our call for scientists to help fuel the fight against world hunger was very positive and we have brought together some of the best minds in the world to hold an intensive range of high level discussions at the GFIA.”
He added: “Our second topic focuses on sustainable animal production and how to meet the ever-increasing demand for meat products in the region, as the population grows and dietary habits evolve. Many livelihoods in rural communities traditionally depend on raising livestock, and these smallholders are facing increasing threats from desertification and climate change.”
GFIA, now in its fourth edition, also featured an exhibition hosting some 300 companies, a conference focusing on MENA food production and an innovation program, showcasing a series of 15-minute talks from companies who think they have a next-generation solution that could shape the future of farming around the world. Further information can be found at www.InnovationsInAgriculture.com

Source: Arab News