Abu dhabi: Sultan Salem Al Shamsi, Director-General of the National Agriculture Centre (NAC), announced the launch of the Sustainable Impact Challenge Agricultural Category, an initiative aimed at empowering farmers, strengthening community impact, and highlighting projects that support sustainable development. The challenge seeks to foster cooperation between government entities and the private sector, sharing best practices and promoting innovation across national agricultural projects.
According to Emirates News Agency, NAC has organized the challenge in collaboration with Majra - National CSR Fund as part of a national initiative to recognize Emirati farmers and farm owners whose projects contribute to the UAE's economic and social development. Al Shamsi emphasized the importance of this collaboration in supporting agricultural projects that deliver tangible impacts and encourage the adoption of sustainable technologies and practices.
Sarah Shaw, CEO of Majra - National CSR Fund, highlighted the challenge as a national platform for transforming ideas into projects with measurable impacts. The initiative aims to focus on projects that improve production efficiency, optimize resource use, and expand market access for local produce, thus strengthening food security and sustainability in the UAE's agricultural sector. Shaw further noted the importance of connecting these projects with cross-sector partnerships to accelerate their growth and expand their impact.
The inaugural edition of the challenge will showcase community-driven agricultural initiatives led by Emirati farm owners and entrepreneurs, highlighting projects that benefit society and encourage innovation. Participants will present their projects for public voting, with the most promising ones advancing to expert assessment and recognition.
The challenge covers various areas of community impact, including creating opportunities for the community, supporting productive families, training and awareness, supporting People of Determination, and promoting agricultural culture and sustainability. NAC and Majra are committed to providing a platform that showcases agricultural solutions, offers advisory sessions, and supports community-driven innovation and engagement.
Farmers, agricultural initiative leaders, and stakeholders are invited to participate in the challenge, which offers an opportunity to showcase achievements and sustainable projects. Registration for the 2026 Sustainable Impact Challenge Agricultural Category will be open from 26th August to 26th September, with winners to be announced at an official ceremony on 26th November.