​Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority ( ADFCA) has recently signed  two agreements in the field of agriculture, one with the Consortium of International agricultural Centers (CGIAR) and the other with International Center for Agricultural Research in Dry Areas (ICARDA), hoping better advancement in the research and expanded application of new technologies.

The agreement was signed by HE. Rashid Khalfan Al Sahriqi, Director General of ADFCA  in the presence of Dr. Tony Kalm, Deputy Head of CGIAR Fund Office and Dr. Mahmoud Solh, ICARDA Director General in the sidelines of ADFCA’s 13th  Scientific Committee Meeting held in Abu Dhabi.

The agreement comes within ADFCA’s extended efforts in the development of agricultural sector of the emirate as well as to support the research activities and to enhance latest technological adaptation in the field, in line with the strategic vision of Abu Dhabi Government that underscores sustainability and technical compatibility in the sector.

Being a member of CGIAR, following the agreement signing, the ADFCA will have better chances to utilize the expertise and the global research contents at the consortium in preparing the agricultural research programs in the emirate in addition to the enhancement of technology transfer in the sector. Utilizing the Gene Bank and Genetic Recourses at various international agricultural research centers in the development of various agricultural projects and qualifying the local technical and research personnel also comes in the benefits of the recently made agreements.

The agreement with ICARDA will enhance the agricultural extension and technology transfer systems as well as improvement of research activities on date palm Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Abu Dhabi.

Other features of the agreement includes evaluation and improvement of  the efficiency of agricultural extension and technology transfer systems, review of existing Date Palm IPM program in Abu Dhabi to develop and recommend a comprehensive research program addressing the integrated pest management of major Date palm pest, enhancing the capacity of ADFCA researchers and technicians on Date palm IPM as well as advance technology transfer and extension system and Introducing the IPM including Biological control measures for vegetable crops under protected agriculture to ADFCA and Abu Dhabi Farm Services Center (ADFSC).