Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s Role at International Government Communication Forum 2023
Overview of the Event
Recently, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) took part in the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF), held at the Sharjah Expo Centre. This event, spanning September 10-11, featured a host of officials and experts who represented the UAE’s innovative strategies in promoting food security and sustainable development. The Ministry emphasized the importance of youth empowerment, the adoption of advanced technologies, and effective community communication as the foundation for a prosperous future.
Engaging With Global Perspectives
This year’s forum attracted a diverse international audience, with 237 speakers participating in over 110 activities covering key topics like Food Security, Public Health, Education, Environmental Sustainability, and Green Economy. MOCCAE officials used this platform to spotlight national initiatives and policies that place the UAE at the forefront of sustainable development, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.
Youth Empowerment in Agriculture
One highlight was a session focused on youth involvement in enhancing quality of life and bolstering food security. Dr. Mohammed Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector, stated that the UAE has transformed environmental challenges into opportunities for innovation. He pointed out advancements in modern agricultural technology, such as vertical farming, which reduces water consumption by over 90% while addressing the challenges posed by extreme temperatures.
Dr. Al Hammadi shared that the Ministry’s vision is to nurture young leaders in food security, supported by initiatives like the ‘Plant the Emirates’ National Programme. This initiative actively engages Emirati farmers and encourages home gardening among youth. Other efforts include the ‘Mustadeem’ programme, designed to prepare future leaders in agriculture, and the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture, established to give young people a voice in shaping the sector.
Protecting Marine Resources
Toward a "National Partnership for the Sea"
In another engaging session, Her Excellency Hiba Obaid Al Shehhi discussed the need for a comprehensive approach to marine resource management. She highlighted a shift from mere protection to an integrated strategy aimed at enhancing sustainability and prosperity. This vision embodies the Framework of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031, which targets a significant increase in marine protected zones and integrates ambitious projects such as the planting of 100 million mangroves by 2030.
Al Shehhi called for a "National Partnership for the Sea" to actively involve all community segments, from regulatory bodies to local fishermen. She emphasized that this initiative should establish guiding principles for sustainable interaction with marine environments and clarify each participant’s responsibilities.
Science-Based Policies for Sustainable Fisheries
Revitalizing the Fishing Industry
Dr. Ibrahim Al Jamali, Director of the Fisheries Department, discussed the National Framework Statement for Sustainable Fisheries (2019-2030). He underscored that the framework is built on solid scientific principles aimed at fostering both environmental sustainability and economic viability in the fishing sector. His approach includes regulating fishing seasons and tools while protecting crucial marine ecosystems like mangroves and coral reefs.
Dr. Al Jamali noted that the Ministry relies on scientific research and monitoring to inform its policies. By conducting detailed fishery surveys and socio-economic studies of fishermen, the Ministry can provide data-driven support that empowers local fishing communities.
Communication Strategies and Community Engagement
Connecting Through Values
Hajar Bakhit Al Ketbi, the Ministry’s Director of Government Communication, highlighted the importance of effective communication tailored to resonate with community values. She cautioned against merely providing logical information, advocating instead for messages that connect to cultural beliefs.
Drawing on the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al Ketbi noted how agricultural messages tied to cultural values can foster a greater sense of responsibility among the public. A prominent example is the National Food Loss and Waste Initiative (ne’ma), which emphasizes the importance of preserving resources.
Al Ketbi also spotlighted this year’s National Environment Day slogan, "Our Heritage…Our Future," which aims to inspire a reconnection with values centered around resource appreciation and conservation. Encouraging the consumption of locally produced food not only supports the economy but also instills pride in national products, reinforcing the concept of identity and heritage.
Conclusion
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s active participation in the IGCF illustrates its commitment to driving community engagement through innovative communication and strategic initiatives. These efforts aim to fulfill the UAE’s vision for a sustainable and food-secure future, relying on collaboration and shared responsibility across the community. Through effective policies and outreach, the Ministry is poised to guide the nation toward long-term environmental and economic resilience.
