Oct 10, 2024
The Association of Agricultural Research Institutions in the Near East and North Africa (AARINENA), represented by its Executive Secretary, Dr. Rida Shibli, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CABI BioProtection Portal, represented by its Executive Director, Global Operations, Dr. Ulrich Kuhlmann. The virtual signing ceremony took place on Oct 10, 2024, marking a significant step towards enhancing sustainable agriculture practices in the region.
The MoU focuses on fostering collaboration between AARINENA and CABI to promote the use of biological control and sustainable pest management solutions across the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. Through the CABI BioProtection Portal, farmers, agricultural researchers, and stakeholders will have access to vital information on natural and biological alternatives to chemical pesticides, supporting more environmentally-friendly farming methods.
Dr. Rida Shibli highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating, “This MoU aligns with AARINENA’s mission to support sustainable agricultural practices that not only improve productivity but also protect the environment. The CABI BioProtection Portal is a valuable tool for our member institutions and farmers, providing them with access to innovative, sustainable pest management solutions.”
Dr. Ulrich Kuhlmann emphasized the shared goals of both organizations, noting, “Our collaboration with AARINENA is an important step in extending the reach of the CABI BioProtection Portal to a region where sustainable agriculture is crucial. Together, we aim to provide practical solutions that enhance crop health while minimizing the ecological impact of pest control.”
Key areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU include:
- Knowledge exchange and capacity building to support the adoption of biological pest control methods.
- Joint workshops, training sessions, and outreach activities aimed at raising awareness about sustainable pest management solutions.
- Expanding the reach of the CABI BioProtection Portal to farmers and agricultural institutions across the NENA region.
This MoU signals a strong commitment from both AARINENA and CABI to drive agricultural innovation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship in the NENA region. By leveraging each organization’s expertise, the partnership will play a key role in advancing sustainable pest management practices that contribute to food security and environmental resilience.