Al Ain: Farming, a centuries old human practice, has been getting latest technological inputs for enhanced productivity around the globe, experts on Wednesday told Emirati farmers, encouraging them to use appropriate tools for better results.
Farmers, farm owners and agricultural experts from across the country were attending the Second Agricultural Exhibition that opened on Thursday at the Al Ain Convention Centre. The four-day event conducted by the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA), is displaying a range of equipment and state-of-the-art products.
Shaikh Hazza Bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, in charge of the office of the Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region, inaugurated the exhibition in the presence of a large number of dignitaries. He toured the exhibition and expressed his appreciation for the initiative that is meant to help farmers to improve the quality and quantity of their produce.
An ADFCA official said the event will help introduce farmers to the government's agricultural policy, which focuses on modernisation and preservation of natural resources.
The authority expects to attract more than 4,000 visitors and a host of exhibitors from the agriculture and animal husbandry sectors. A large number of government, semi-government and private organisations have been participating in the exhibition along with UAE-based agriculture and animal care companies and factories.
The exhibition will showcase modern irrigation systems, chemical and organic fertilisers, modern farming systems, machines and equipment. A section is dedicated to Emirati produce, animal production, and date palms.
According to Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman the ADFCA, the event will introduce farmers and the public to the vision of ADFCA.
The ADFCA said the exhibition also provides an opportunity to experts and farmers to exchange their experiences, knowledge, and practices to enhance their contribution towards the achievement of sustainable future for agriculture and animal husbandry.
A number of events such as conferences, awareness programs, cultural contests, theatre performances, and auctions will be part of the exhibition.
Prizes
Prizes will be given to the best government exhibitor, best exhibitors in the field of plants and animals. Some breeds of sheep and goats will be auctioned during the events.
The event is running until February 25, opening gates for the public from 9am to 8pm except on Friday when it will open at 2pm, according to the ADFCA.
Agriculture plays a crucial role in reducing global poverty.
Kanayo F. Nwanze, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), said, his organisation is committed to pull up to 90 million people out of poverty.
