The Second Meeting of the National Committee of Biosecurity 2024:
The National Committee of Biosecurity held its second meeting for 2024 covering a wide range of critical topics to enhance the biosecurity in the UAE.
The committee placed particular emphasis on the need to strengthen mosquito control efforts.
Particularly following the extraordinary climatic event that resulted in record-breaking rainfall in the country.
The committee also discussed Epidemic Preparedness Map Project and National Biosecurity Framework.
The UAE Considers Biosecurity as One of its Top Priorities
Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, chaired the second meeting of the National Committee of Biosecurity, which was held virtually.
Dr. Al Dahak emphasized that the UAE considers biosecurity as one of its top priorities.
This is demonstrated in the country’s implementation of an integrated ecosystem for sustainable biosecurity.
That encompasses a robust legislative structure, laws and decisions.
She said: “We are working to ensure sustainable national biosecurity in all the emirates.
With special focus on efforts to control mosquito proliferation.
Especially following the exceptional weather conditions in the country.
We will take all necessary steps in collaboration with the relevant authorities to accomplish this goal and remain committed to the cause going forward.”
‘National Biosecurity Framework 2023-2032’
Dr. Al Dahak expressed gratitude to the members of the National Committee of Biosecurity and all the working teams, saying:
“We appreciate the teams’ unwavering efforts.
In addition to their outstanding work in improving the biosecurity of the UAE and their commitment to maintaining sustainable biosecurity at all times.”
The meeting also discussed other important topics in the field of biosecurity in the UAE.
Including updates on the execution of the ‘National Biosecurity Framework 2023-2032’.
As well as the ongoing efforts to expedite the implementation of its requirements in collaboration with the National Committee of Biosecurity on several key files.
The presentation of the Epidemic Preparedness Map Project includes:
An introductory workshop on its uses for technical teams from the relevant authorities and academics, was also covered during the meeting.
Additionally, coordination with the Cyber Security Council and the UAE Data Centre was discussed.
In order to analyze the current situation and develop programs and forge links between authorities to ensure decision-makers are adequately prepared and have access to information.
In its 33rd session, the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is unique in displaying rare and important publications, manuscripts and historical collectibles, which attract the interest and attention of its visitors, especially the younger generations. pic.twitter.com/97faazUj1g
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) May 3, 2024
Improving Mosquito Control
During the meeting, they discussed strategies for improving mosquito control throughout the UAE across all emirates.
These included:
- Monitoring mosquito proliferation and the areas of their spread
- Coordinating control efforts with relevant authorities across all emirates
- Educating the public about sustainable behaviors that can help prevent mosquitoes and control their population effectively.
