The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has achieved a significant global milestone, becoming the first entity in the agriculture and food safety sector worldwide to be awarded the ISO/IEC 42001:2023 certification for its Artificial Intelligence Management System. This accomplishment cements Abu Dhabi’s position as a leader in leveraging advanced technology while championing responsible governance.
A Global First in AgriTech Governance
The prestigious ISO/IEC 42001:2023 certification was granted to ADAFSA following a rigorous external audit of its AI management framework. The standard specifically addresses the unique challenges of AI systems, ensuring that organizations develop, provide, and use AI in a responsible manner. By securing this certification, ADAFSA not only pioneers a new standard for the global AgriTech industry but also demonstrates a profound commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology with robust ethical oversight.
Driving Responsible AI Innovation
This achievement is more than a technical validation; it represents a strategic dedication to ethical AI principles. The certification confirms that ADAFSA’s AI systems are managed with a focus on transparency, accountability, and fairness. For a sector as critical as food safety and agriculture, establishing this level of trust is paramount. It assures both the public and industry partners that the authority’s use of AI to enhance food security and sustainability is built on a foundation of responsible and reliable governance.
Aligning with National Digital Strategy
ADAFSA’s success aligns perfectly with the broader digital transformation ambitions of Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates. The UAE has consistently signaled its intent to become a global hub for AI development and implementation. This certification serves as a tangible outcome of that strategy, showcasing how government entities can lead the way in adopting and regulating emerging technologies. It reinforces the emirate’s reputation as a forward-thinking ecosystem that fosters innovation within a secure and well-governed framework.
About the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA)
The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority is the government entity responsible for agriculture, food safety, food security, and biosecurity in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Its mission is to develop a sustainable agriculture and food sector and protect the health of animals and plants to enhance biosecurity and achieve food security.
Looking Ahead
By setting a new international benchmark, ADAFSA provides a blueprint for other government bodies and private enterprises in the MENA region and beyond. This milestone is expected to enhance confidence in Abu Dhabi’s digital infrastructure, potentially attracting further investment and talent to its burgeoning AgriTech sector. For founders and tech professionals, it signals a market that not only welcomes innovation but also provides clear standards for its responsible deployment, creating a stable and predictable environment for growth.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
