BRAZILIA — Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Eng. Abdulrahman Alfadley said that Saudi Arabia's efforts to encourage and stimulate local and foreign investments in the agricultural sector led to an increase in the levels of the gross domestic product (GDP) in the sector by 35 percent. Addressing the G20 Agriculture Ministers' Meeting in Brazilia, he emphasized the critical role of smallholder and indigenous communities in ensuring a sustainable food system. Alfadley highlighted the need to provide farmers with needed resources and support, and emphasized the need to integrate fisheries and aquaculture in value chains. "We recognize the invaluable contributions of smallholders. We can boost their productivity and strengthen rural communities by empowering them with financing, agricultural extension services, and essential inputs. In this regard, Saudi Arabia has launched the flagship Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program to empower smallholders and rural communities," he said. The minister noted that the program focuses on building the capacity of smallholders and family farms, which helps them add value with their produce and rural activities. "The program helps farmers increase their production. In 2023, the program positively impacted more than 120,000 beneficiaries," he said while stressing that the fisheries sector in Saudi Arabia plays a vital role in reaching sustainable agricultural development, creating income and contributing significantly to food security. "Recognizing its importance, we are working to transform the aquaculture sector by attracting investments and increasing local production. We have already achieved over 190,000 tons of fisheries and aquaculture, meeting around 60 percent of our local consumption needs," he said. Alfadley pointed out that many regions around the world are still suffering from the impact of drought. He also highlighted the UN Convention to Combat Desertification as the world's foremost platform to discuss contemporary challenges and plan a sustainable future. The minister extended an invitation to attendees to join COP16, scheduled to be held in Riyadh in December 2024.
