AN INTEGRATED DESERT FARMING INNOVATION PLATFORM For Regional Collaboration in Transforming Food, Nutrition, and Water Security under Climate Change

On March 14-15, the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation (KIADPAI), in cooperation with CGIAR and Ministers from over 15 West Asia and North Africa (WANA) countries accompanied by representatives of National Agricultural Research Centers, will meet in a closed side-event to discuss a roadmap towards an Integrated Desert Farming Innovation Platform.

The platform will boost a new phase of international and regional collaboration, sharing knowledge and assets to accelerate agricultural innovations along field-to-fork value chains. The p builds on established foundations such as improved water management, the development of climate-smart crops, integrated crop/livestock systems, and efforts to reduce desertification while boosting pillar industries such as date palm production.

The platform will also fast-track technology innovation breakthroughs in water and soil productivity and accelerate the adoption of innovative information technology, artificial intelligence, integrated pest management, and digital extension services.