The Worldwide Heart for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) has been acknowledged by the Meals and Agriculture Group of the United Nations (FAO) for its pioneering contributions to sustainable plant manufacturing and safety. The popularity was conferred throughout FAO’s first-ever International Technical Recognition Ceremony, held at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy, on 15 October 2025, as a part of the group’s eightieth anniversary and World Meals Day 2025 celebrations.
The popularity was introduced by Dr. Qu Dongyu, FAO Director-Normal, to Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Director Normal of ICBA, acknowledging the Heart’s management in growing sustainable, climate-resilient agriculture in saline and arid environments. As FAO’s first International Technical Recognition, the initiative honors establishments reworking agrifood programs via science-driven innovation and influence. Held alongside World Meals Day 2025 underneath the theme “Hand in hand for higher meals and a greater future”, it celebrates progress towards sustainable manufacturing, environment friendly useful resource use, and local weather resilience consistent with FAO’s 4 Betters.
Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Director Normal of ICBA, mentioned: “We’re deeply honored by this recognition from FAO, which underscores the ability of collaborative science and innovation in addressing world agricultural challenges. It displays the dedication of our scientists, specialists, and companions who work collectively to construct resilient and sustainable meals programs. We dedicate this achievement to the founders of the Heart — the Authorities of the United Arab Emirates and the Islamic Growth Financial institution — whose imaginative and prescient and continued assist laid the inspiration for ICBA’s mission. This recognition additionally stands as a testomony to the belief and dedication of our companions and funders who allow us to advance analysis, partnerships, and information trade that empower communities, strengthen livelihoods, and contribute to world meals safety and sustainability.”
For practically 25 years, the Heart has superior sustainable plant manufacturing programs that enhance soil well being, optimize water use, and increase productiveness. By means of its work conserving and using numerous crop germplasm, ICBA has developed stress-tolerant crops creating new alternatives for meals and earnings safety in areas affected by salinity and drought.
Based mostly within the United Arab Emirates and energetic in over 40 international locations, ICBA leads efforts to combine science, expertise, and coverage to sort out water shortage, soil degradation, and meals insecurity. This recognition comes because the Heart advances its 2024–2034 technique, targeted on science-based options that increase productiveness and local weather resilience in arid and saline environments, whereas strengthening world partnerships for lasting influence.