On November 20, 2023 , the Islamic Organization for Food Security, and its subsidiary, the International Islamic Food Processing Association, in collaboration with Hamad Bin Khalifa University's (HBKU) hosted a webinar on "Economic Diversification to Promote Food Security in the GCC".
Webinar Overview:
The discussion centered on the GCC countries' commitment to economic diversification as a key element in their sustainable growth plans. The webinar aimed to highlight the opportunities, challenges, and enablers of economic diversification and its impact on food security within the GCC.
Opening Speech:
The Director of Programs and Projects at IOFS, Professor Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, delivered an opening speech alongside Prof. Ray Jureidini of Hamad Bin Khalifa University, marking the beginning of a knowledge-sharing journey. A key emphasis was made on the topics that panelists would discuss: challenges and vulnerabilities of the GCC region, import dependency, government initiatives, innovations in agriculture and diversification of food sources.
Moderator:
Dr. Dalal Aassouli, from Hamad Bin Khalifa University, moderated the session.
Panelists:
- Ms. Amal Hassan Al Ahmadi, Head of Research and Development, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.
- Mr. Eng. Hamood Hamed Al-Rushaidi, Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), Nitaj - Oman Food Investment Holding.
Discussion Themes:
1. Realistic current assessment of today’s GCC countries’ food security.
2. How economic diversification strategies of GCC countries can support food security.
3. GCC countries’ vision for developing a globally competitive, sustainable, and resilient agriculture sector.
Key Points Discussed:
Ms. Amal (UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment):
- Partnership with Emirates Development Bank and its contribution to economic diversification for Food Security.
- Projects like the UAE Food Innovation Hub and UAE Food Tech Valley contributing to economic diversification initiatives.
- Policy measures and incentives to support private sector investment in Agritech and food processing.
Mr. Hamood (Nitaj - Oman Food Investment Holding):
- Top strategic priorities for OFIH in promoting economic diversification through the lens of food security.
- Utilization of technology, innovation, and R&D to transform Oman's agriculture and food production capabilities.
- Policy reforms and incentives proposed to enable greater private sector participation and FDI.
- Challenges in reducing Oman's dependence on food imports and strategies to overcome them.
- Collaboration with smallholder farmers, agri-SMEs, and entrepreneurs to broaden the food production base.
Conclusion:
The panelists expressed gratitude to the organizers, highlighting the webinar's significance as a unique platform for capacity building and the sharing of best practices among OIC Member States.
About Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU):
HBKU is a leading research university in Qatar, committed to addressing regional and global challenges through impactful research and education.
About the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS):
IOFS is dedicated to advancing food security through research, innovation, and collaboration, aiming to create sustainable solutions for global challenges.
About the International Islamic Food Processing Association (IFPA):
IFPA is the B2B arm of the IOFS, enabling intra-OIC agri-food trade and investment across the entire value chain from gene-to-fork through Shariah compliant tools and sustainable tech solutions.
