MOFA and UAEU Present Advanced Research-Based Solutions for Rural Women’s Empowerment and Sustainability under the Initiative of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak

On the Sidelines of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit 2026

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), the General Women’s Union, and the Green University of Uzbekistan, hosted a specialized workshop under the initiative of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak to empower rural women in agriculture. The workshop was held under the supervision of H.H. Sheikha Dr. Moza bint Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and in the presence of H.E. Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Vice Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, alongside academics, scholars, and international partners. The workshop sessions showcased research and applied projects focusing on food security, climate change, and environmental sustainability.

H.H. Sheikha Dr. Moza bint Tahnoun Al Nahyan affirmed that “empowering rural women in Africa is a real investment in people and in the future of the continent, contributing to food security and sustainable development. This represents a fundamental pillar of the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Initiative to Empower Rural Women in Agriculture in Africa.” She added, “When women are provided with the tools and knowledge needed to advance the agricultural sector, they become true partners in development, contributing to positive change and community self-sufficiency. We extend our sincere appreciation to UAEU, the General Women’s Union, and all partners, as well as the scholars and instructors whose expertise helped bring this initiative to life.”

H.E. Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Vice Chancellor of UAEU, noted that the university’s participation reflects its commitment to its scientific and societal role in supporting sustainability and rural women’s empowerment. He emphasized that UAEU places strong importance on applied research as a foundation for enhancing food security and adapting to climate change. He added, “UAEU strives to leverage its research capabilities and international academic networks to support initiatives that uplift rural communities and advance the Sustainable Development Goals, reinforcing its position as a regional hub for innovation and sustainability-focused research.”

The session opened with a presentation by Prof. Kaula Al Kaabi from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences titled “Exploring Food Waste Reduction in the Commercial Sector: A Structural Modeling and Spatial Analysis Approach.” The presentation highlighted analytical tools for measuring food waste patterns and identifying supply chain inefficiencies to support sustainable food policies.

Ms. Nayaa Al Mansouri, Head of the International Cooperation Section at the General Women’s Union, delivered a detailed presentation on empowering rural women in Africa through agriculture. Dr. Ghada Al Mershidi from the College of Education presented “Smart Gardens Powered by Artificial Intelligence and Storytelling to Teach Food and Climate Systems,” showcasing an applied educational approach to raising student awareness of sustainable agriculture and climate change in schools in the UAE and Uzbekistan.

Under the environmental sustainability and climate resilience theme, Dr. Mohammed Fresha from the College of Engineering presented his research titled “Environmental Rights and Climate Resilience: Integrating Digital Elevation Models, Aerial Drone Imaging, and Terrain Analysis to Support the Sustainable Development Goals,” highlighting the role of advanced technologies in environmental planning and agricultural decision-making.

Engineer Rahma Hassan Khaji from the College of Engineering delivered a presentation entitled “Developing Improved Thermal Performance Guidelines for Residential Buildings and Thermal Imaging Test Bags,” shedding light on measuring energy efficiency and its role in supporting urban sustainability.

The session concluded with scientific discussions led by Dr. Mohammed Abdul Muhsen Alyafei, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, focusing on leveraging research outcomes to support rural women and enhance the sustainability of agricultural systems, in alignment with the objectives of the initiative of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.