International Consortium Launches Bold Battle Against Red Palm Weevil
Start Date
May 15, 2025
End Date
May 17, 2025
Type
General event
Location
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Red Palm Weevil
In a milestone step toward safeguarding date palm agriculture, rural livelihoods, and the environment, the Consortium for Red Palm Weevil Control (C4RPWC) will officially launch its integrated research-for-development (R4D) program in Abu Dhabi this week.
Abu Dhabi, UAE | April 15–17, 2025 - Co-supported by the UAE and the Gates Foundation and hosted by ICARDA under the CGIAR umbrella, the consortium unites global research leaders and national institutions in a concerted battle against the Red Palm Weevil (RPW), a destructive pest now plaguing more than 49 countries worldwide, accounting for US$2 billion in annual crop losses, infesting over 35 million trees, and affecting over 50 million farmers.
Held at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Abu Dhabi, the three-day workshop will feature intense internal planning, strategic dialogues with UAE stakeholders, and a formal public launch on April 16 at the 17th session of the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation at the Emirates Palace’s Al Etihad Ballroom.
“The fight against Red Palm Weevil requires science-driven solutions, strong partnerships, and actionable strategies. ICARDA is committed to translating research into action, helping farmers, policymakers, and communities safeguard their livelihoods and protect vital ecosystems.” – Aly Abousabaa, Director General, ICARDA & Regional Director, Central and West Asia and North Africa, CGIAR
The initiative is anchored in collaboration, innovation, and action. Participating institutions include the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation, FAO, ICBA, ADAFSA, Khalifa University, and key CGIAR centers, including ICRISAT and IITA.
Integrated, Impact-Driven Research
The consortium’s workstreams are designed to explore and refine a spectrum of cutting-edge solutions, from bio-based controls and digital diagnostics to biotechnological innovations and data-driven modeling. Participants will also focus on deploying these innovations within specific country contexts, starting with pilot activities in Egypt, Morocco, and the UAE. Workstream leaders will collaborate to align timelines, consolidate legacy data, and finalize criteria for site selection. The workshop will include a field visit to view demonstrations of private-sector innovations in RPW monitoring and control, emphasizing the vital role of cross-sector collaboration.
From Science to Systems Change
To ensure long-term impact, participants will also explore translating research outputs into deployable and scalable solutions and strengthening coordination with national institutions. A final “C4RPWC Café” session will create a dynamic joint planning and engagement platform, resulting in actionable next steps and improved synergy across sectors.