Despite being gifted with a rich abundance of hydrocarbons and mineral resources, the Middle East and North Africa is an arid region that suffers from water scarcity and food insecurity. As more traditional farming methods may not be immediately transferrable, the region is turning its attention to the growing trend of vertical farming, advancements in agricultural technology, and the burgeoning community of experts aiming to make healthy and affordable food available to all. 

This session would bring together local environmental champions, regional agricultural investors, creative international farming models, and food security experts, eager to share scalable strategies and best practices that are uniquely positioned to have greatest impact in the MENA region.

Moderator

Mishaal Al Gergawi, Co-Director, emerge85

Speakers

Matt Barnard, CEO and Co-Founder, Plenty Inc.

Karan A. Chanana, Chairman, Amira Nature Foods Limited

Charlie McNairy, CEO and Chief Investment Officer, International Farming Corporation

Marc Oshima, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer, AeroFarms; Board Co-Chair, Chefs Collaborative