UAE, Bill Gates Join Forces To Transform Global Food Systems Amid Climate Challenges

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates met UAE head of the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court, Mariam Almheiri, Thursday as part of a joint project launched a year ago to advance agricultural innovation and transform food systems to address challenges posed by climate change.

The project, unveiled during COP28 in the UAE, highlighted a combined investment of $200 million from the Gates Foundation and the UAE. The funding aims to leverage AI and technology to tackle both immediate and long-term threats to global food systems caused by climate change.

Almheiri emphasized that the UAE was actively turning commitments and investments into tangible actions. She highlighted that the progress showcased reflected the country's dedication to food security and leadership in agricultural innovation.

She also expressed her satisfaction in hosting Bill Gates as the guest of honor, noting that his visit provided an opportunity to witness the advancements being made in addressing global agricultural challenges driven by climate change.

Faisal Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President on Strategic Research and Advanced Technology Affairs and Secretary General of Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), was also present at the Emirates Palace, where Almheiri held a bilateral meeting with Gates.

"Meeting with Bill Gates highlighted our shared vision of harnessing AI and technology to address global challenges. With AI71's agri-tech solutions powered by TII's Falcon models, we aim to enhance food security, sustainability, and inclusive growth," Al Bannai said, WAM reported.

"The UAE is committed to advancing this vision through innovation and partnerships, demonstrating AI's potential to create a better future for all."

The visit concluded with a tour of four key projects funded by the Gates Foundation and UAE Partnership, including:

CGIAR AI Hub and AgrilLLM: This project used AI and large language models to automate agricultural extension services, helping small farmers in low-income countries who face resource challenges due to climate change.

International Red Palm Weevil Consortium: A global initiative aimed at protecting palm trees from the Red Palm Weevil, a serious threat to palm plantations worldwide.

Technical Assistance: This program will help 15 countries develop key analytical tools to improve their agricultural systems and climate strategies, including risk assessments and adaptation plans.

AIM for Scale Weather & AI-based Forecasting: Focused on improving weather forecasting for farmers in low-income regions, this initiative aimed to reach hundreds of millions of farmers within two years with better climate information.