Astana, Kazakhstan – On 20 August 2024, the Director General of the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) Ambassador Berik Aryn visited the National Agrarian Science and Educational Centre (NASEC) to meet with Mr. Erzhan Ainabekov, Acting Chairman of the Governing Board of NASEC. The meeting was a significant opportunity to discuss and review the progress of several key initiatives aimed at bolstering food security and advancing agricultural resilience.
During the discussion, Ambassador Aryn introduced a range of ongoing and upcoming projects of the IOFS. These include the establishment of the IOFS Gene Bank in Kazakhstan, which is set to play a crucial role in preserving agricultural biodiversity. The meeting also highlighted ongoing work to advance wheat development in Kazakhstan through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and collaborations with international experts.
Furthermore, in response to recent devastating floods, the establishment of a Flood Resilience Center was discussed. This center aims to enhance the region's ability to withstand and recover from natural disasters, with the goal of safeguarding food security across multiple Member States. Additionally, the enhancement of Kazakhstan's alfalfa industry was addressed, focusing on training farmers and boosting local production to meet both domestic and export needs.
Other topics included the application of biochar technology to improve soil health and the use of artificial intelligence to advance smart agriculture. These initiatives are part of IOFS's broader strategy to integrate modern technologies and practices into agricultural development.
In closing, Mr. Ainabekov conveyed NASEC’s full endorsement of all IOFS proposals and emphasized the critical need for ongoing collaboration. He expressed strong commitment to working together to tackle the multifaceted challenges facing food security and agricultural sustainability. The meeting reinforced the shared vision of both parties to drive impactful change and foster resilience in the face of evolving global challenges.
