Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an essential
component for development, not only of the agricultural sector, but also of industrial,
environmental, and service sectors as well. It is a crucial element in establishing the
sustainable development in any country.
Realizing the important role of ICT in creating a sustainable agricultural
development, AARINENA worked intensively during the last decade or so and has
committed to strengthen this sector and enhance its usage in the WANA region.
Addressing the development of the agricultural sector through the enhancement
of information and communication technology was put as an urgent priority for
AARINENA decision makers. Experiences of member countries in this field were highly
acknowledged and identified for future use. The formation of the ICT Steering
Committee, which proved to be fruitful, launching a set of databases, and addressing
the training needs are good examples of the continuous efforts of AARINENA to
improve the abilities and enhance the capabilities of its member countries to achieve
sustainable agricultural development. There is no doubt that information system
development requires intensive and integrated efforts by all countries to achieve the
goals and objectives set by the steering committee. The fact that cannot be denied is
that the development of the ICT sector must be backed-up and supported by political
commitment of all members