Abu Dhabi Launches Third Edition of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agriculture Excellence Award

The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority has launched the third Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Award for Excellence in Agriculture, encouraging innovation and sustainability. Applications are open until November 15, 2024, with winners to be announced in February 2025.

Dubai [UAE], September 12 (ANI/WAM): The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has announced the third edition of the Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Award for Excellence in Agriculture under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs. The award aims to highlight 'Innovative Farmer and Breeder with a Sustainable Vision' and introduces revamped categories, competitions, cash prizes, and updated evaluation criteria. Applications for the award are now open on the official website 'smaea.ae' and will be accepted until November 15, 2024. Final winners will be announced in February 2025.

The announcement was made during a press conference at ADAFSA's main headquarters, attended by key officials including Her Excellency Mouza Suhail Al Muhairi, Ahmed Khaled Othman, Mubarak Ali Al Mansouri, and Jaber Mohammed Al Neyadi. Mouza Suhail Al Muhairi emphasized the award's alignment with the National Food Security Strategy 2051 and the sustainable agricultural plans for Abu Dhabi. "The award will stimulate innovation and motivate farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices," she said.

The prize pool exceeds AED 5.3 million across various categories, including Best Farm, Outstanding Estate Award, and specialized sub-categories like Best Open Field Farm and Best Greenhouse Farm. Distinct recognition for female farmers is also part of the award, reflecting the commitment to women's empowerment. The initiative also aims to instill a culture of agricultural excellence and sustainability among Emiratis. Additionally, the ADAFSA plans to participate in the upcoming Sheikh Zayed Festival, bringing a spotlight to Abu Dhabi's thriving agricultural sector with events and competitions.

Her Excellency Moza Suhail Al Muhairi said the award acts as a quality mark for winners, ensuring local consumers can trust the excellence of national agricultural products. ADAFSA aims to use this platform to reinforce sustainable agricultural practices, thereby ensuring food safety and availability. The award has previously attracted 676 participants and granted prizes totaling over 16.7 million dirhams, indicating its significant impact in promoting agricultural innovation.

(With inputs from agencies.)