Baku: The agricultural sector in Azerbaijan is making significant strides forward, as emphasized by a representative from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Agriculture plays a pivotal role in Azerbaijan's economy, contributing around 7% to the national GDP and providing employment for approximately 38% of the workforce. This sector not only serves as a crucial livelihood source for a substantial portion of the population but also supports the country's sustainable development goals and cultural heritage.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, climate change, water scarcity, and soil health deterioration are among the pressing challenges faced by the agricultural sector in the country. Despite these challenges, both the FAO's strategic framework and the Azerbaijani government's aspirations indicate that the sector is on the right trajectory. The focus now is on supporting small farmers to adapt to modern challenges and integrate into the evolving agricultural landscape.
The cooperation between the FAO and Azerbaijan is built on principles of better production, nutrition, environment, and life, ensuring that no one is left behind. The Azerbaijani government is prioritizing the development of climate-resilient agricultural systems and a greener transition of agri-food systems. There is also a notable shift towards food diversification, with increased emphasis on high-value vegetables and fruits beyond traditional staples like lamb and beef.
Climate-related agricultural initiatives are at the core of FAO's work in Azerbaijan. The country is actively participating in global climate discussions, highlighted by its hosting of COP29 and its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Efforts are underway to achieve land degradation neutrality, particularly focusing on the Epsilon region, and to conserve biodiversity in protected areas.
Digitalization in agriculture is viewed as the future, with potential for substantial impact through the use of digital tools, including smartphones, to provide farmers with critical information on climate, market trends, and other factors. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Agriculture is already employing digital technology to identify farmers in need of assistance and streamline subsidy processes. However, further development and resources are needed to fully harness these technologies, especially for small-scale farmers who form the backbone of global food systems.