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The SOMA MATER Podcast

The SOMA MATER Podcast

By: SOMA MATER
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About this listen

Hosted by Sheikh Dr. Majid Al Qassimi, the SOMA MATER Podcast brings together the people shaping the future of food, water, and energy security across the Middle East and North Africa.

From organic farmers to policymakers, sustainability leads to startup founders — this podcast goes beyond surface-level discussions to explore the real challenges and practical solutions facing the region’s most critical systems.

Whether you’re in government, business, or simply curious about where the region is headed, this show offers insight, access, and a front-row seat to the people building resilient systems from the ground up.

This podcast is a platform for solutions.

🗓️ New episodes dropping monthly.
🎧 Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube @wearesomamater

© 2025 The SOMA MATER Podcast
Episodes
  • The SOMA MATER Podcast Episode 1 - Yazen Al Kodmani

    The SOMA MATER Podcast Episode 1 - Yazen Al Kodmani
    Oct 12 2025

    In this episode, we explore with Yazen Al Kodmani the GM at Emirates Bio Farm, the evolving landscape of agriculture in the UAE, focusing on hydroponics, vertical farming, and the critical role of technology in enhancing food security. The conversation delves into the dynamics between retailers and local farmers, the challenges posed by climate and market conditions, and the importance of collaboration among stakeholders. We also discuss the need for better education on food policy and the significance of traceability in food sourcing, highlighting the unique agricultural context of the UAE. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of agriculture in the UAE, focusing on the challenges and innovations in local farming, the importance of consumer preferences for organic produce, and the role of technology in enhancing agricultural practices. They emphasize the need for collaboration among farmers, retailers, and consumers to build trust in local products and ensure sustainability in food systems. The discussion also highlights the significance of education and awareness in promoting local sourcing and the potential for innovative solutions to address the challenges faced by the agricultural sector.
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    34 mins
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