Since the launch of Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival on 30 November, the Agricultural Oasis, organized by the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA), Abu Dhabi Farmers' Services Centre and Food Security Center, has attracted more than 104 thousand visitors, the Agricultural Oasis' organizing committee announced.
The visitors were introduced to the great renaissance experienced by the UAE in the agriculture and livestock sector. They were briefed about ADFCA's projects aim to develop a safe and sustainable food sector, and its various forms of support to farmers, as the authority seeks to realize sustainable food sector.
In this regard, Thamer Rashid Al Qasemi, Chairman of the oasis organizing committee, said: "We are keen to highlight the interest of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in agriculture, the UAE's heritage, and the global heritage in general. The oasis aims to document his great achievements in establishing and developing the agricultural sector, as well as introducing the public to the agricultural renaissance achieved by the UAE and Abu Dhabi in particular. It reflects our constant efforts to distinctly and effectively participate in all cultural-related events in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi."
Al Qasemi added that ADFCA, in cooperation with its partners, seeks to introduce the public to services it provides to farmers, livestock breeders and food facilities' workers, to improve the food sector and achieve sustainability. The authority also supports the local product by providing stands for farmers to display their products for the oasis visitors from different countries.
Furthermore, the authority seeks to disseminate awareness among school students through the specialized workshops hosted by the oasis throughout the festival's days, such as "Junior Beekeeper", "Junior Analyst", and "Junior Farmer", Al Qasemi he clarified.
The agricultural oasis includes a special market for local farmers to display and sells their various agro-products to visitors at nominal prices, to promote the local product and its quality. Moreover, the authority raised the farmers' awareness about the sound practices to enhance productivity and achieve agriculture sustainability. The farmers were also introduced to the latest techniques used to achieve agricultural development while preserving the natural resources and the environment. The oasis also included an office for delighting customers, theater, nurseries, and corners for kids, honey and hydroponics.