UAE at IFAD Council: Boosting Agri-Innovation & Youth Empowerment

Klaus Schmidt · 2026-02-14

So, the UAE just wrapped up some important talks in Rome. It wasn't about tourism or real estate this time, but something more fundamental: the future of farming and food security. The country participated in the 49th session of the IFAD Governing Council, which ran from February 10th to 12th, 2026. This wasn't just a diplomatic check-in. The discussions got straight to the heart of some major global challenges. Think about it—how do we grow food sustainably for a growing population? How do we make agriculture a viable, exciting career for the next generation? That's exactly what was on the table. ### What Was Actually Discussed in Rome? The agenda was packed, but it really centered on a few key pillars. First up was strengthening innovation. We're talking about new technologies, smarter farming practices, and finding ways to do more with less. It's about moving beyond traditional methods to create a resilient agricultural sector that can withstand climate pressures. Another huge focus was on people. Specifically, empowering youth and women in agriculture. This is crucial. For too long, farming has been seen as an old-fashioned career. The goal here is to change that narrative, to provide the tools, training, and opportunities that make it a field where young people and women can truly thrive and lead. ### The Mechanics of Making Change Happen Of course, big ideas need funding to become reality. A significant part of the session involved establishing a Consultation Body for the Fourteenth Replenishment of IFAD's resources. In simple terms, they're figuring out how to refill the financial tank so these programs for innovation and empowerment can actually get off the ground. It's the practical step that turns talk into action. The UAE's delegation was led by the Ministry of Finance, showing this is a strategic priority. Her Excellency Mariam Mohamed Al Amiri, Assistant Undersecretary for the Government Financial Management Sector, was a key representative. Her presence underscores the UAE's commitment to being an active player in global development, not just in its own region. Why does this matter, even if you're not a farmer? Because food security is national security. Because sustainable growth is the only kind of growth that lasts. And because empowering half the population—women—and harnessing the energy of youth is just smart economics. As one delegate noted, *"Investing in rural people isn't charity; it's investing in stability and our shared future."* That sentiment really captures the spirit of the meetings. The key takeaways from the session are clear: - Innovation is non-negotiable for modern agriculture. - Youth and women are the untapped engines of growth in this sector. - Collaborative funding is essential to scale solutions. - The UAE is positioning itself as a serious contributor to these global dialogues. It's easy to think of these international meetings as just talk. But this one in Rome seems different. It was focused on concrete mechanisms—like that new Consultation Body—to channel resources directly to where they can make a difference: on the ground, with the people who grow our food.