The Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Fisheries discusses agricultural and fisheries development projects with FAO.

Minister of Agriculture Discusses Development Projects with FAO in Aden

In a significant meeting held today in Aden, the Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Fisheries, Major General Salem Al-Saqtri, engaged with Adam Yao, the Acting Resident Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Yemen. The discussions focused on agricultural, livestock, and fishery development projects in Yemen, aiming to enhance cooperation on ongoing initiatives.

Key Agricultural Initiatives

The meeting highlighted the upcoming Dairy Value Chain Support and Development Project, which the Ministry and FAO are preparing with a substantial backing of $100 million from the World Bank. This initiative aims to elevate livestock production in several provinces by improving local cattle breeds, enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and herders, and developing milk collection systems.

Environmental and Fisheries Support

Additionally, the discussions covered the key interventions of the “Jif” project in Socotra and the Huf Protected Area in Al-Mahra. These interventions focus on agricultural, environmental, and fishery aspects. The FAO also supports the National Plant Health Strategy and the National Livestock Strategy. Furthermore, the meeting addressed funding for the Ministry’s network connection with veterinary checkpoints to monitor and regulate agricultural and fishery exports and imports, preventing smuggling.

Strengthening FAO’s Role

Minister Al-Saqtri praised the FAO’s significant contributions over the past years, noting the organization’s support for farmers and fishermen across various provinces. He emphasized the importance of enhancing FAO’s developmental role during this critical phase by intensifying efforts and increasing coordination with donors and development partners.

Commitment to Food Security

In response, Adam Yao reaffirmed the FAO’s commitment to actively support Yemen’s agriculture, irrigation, livestock, and fishery sectors. He emphasized the organization’s partnership with the Ministry to bolster food security and improve the livelihoods of the most vulnerable populations.

This collaboration marks a crucial step toward sustainable agricultural development in Yemen, addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals for food security and economic stability.

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