MAFAR MINISTER SERVES AS SPEAKER IN THE BUSINESS INNOVATION SERIES 2020
As part of the celebration of the Swiss National Day, MAFAR Minister Dr Mohammad S. Yacob has positively responded to the invitation of the Swiss Confederation and presented the potential of Agri-Tech in Regional Economic Development in the Bangsamoro on July 30, 2020 via Zoom.
The virtual forum aimed at highlighting the importance of data analytics in formulating evidence-based policy-making and the use of technology in enhancing the agricultural sector and was particularly titled as ‘Satellite and data analytics in revolutionizing the Philippine agricultural landscape’.
Before the actual virtual presentations, H.E. Alain Gaschen, Ambassador of Switzerland to the Philippines, delivered his welcome remarks and acknowledged all the participating officials.
Minister Yacob’s presentation included the status of the BARMM economy, the challenges and opportunities in agriculture and fisheries, the MAFAR goals and key strategies, the proposed food security and nutrition roadmap in the BARMM, and the contributions of data analytics to the Bangsamoro economy.
According to the MAFAR Chief, data analytics is helpful in overcoming many challenges that face the BARMM agriculture and countryside development. He said the system will promote evidence-based policy-making, strengthen extension services, facilitate production support, provide directions for partnership and delivery of interventions, and facilitate the continuity of innovations in the BARMM and in the Philippine agricultural landscape.
Minister Yacob also explained how agricultural technology or AgriTech will improve the agriculture sector in the BARMM and the regional economy by encouraging innovations, creating sustainable and progressive economy, promoting value adding for higher income among farmers, and easing the impacts of the climate change.
Aside from the MAFAR Minister, Secretary Dr William D. Dar of the Department of Agriculture shared his significant knowledge on the sectoral overview, challenges, and innovations in Philippine agriculture while Dr Roger Moser, Chairman of the Board of SatSure AG, presented insights on satellite data and how data analytics contribute to sustainable economic development.