BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 16. Innovative
solutions can help farmers in Azerbaijan use water resources more
efficiently, reduce crop losses, and increase their incomes, FAO
Representative in Azerbaijan Nasar Hayat said at the World Food Day
2026 event on Friday, Trend's correspondent reports from the event.


The event was jointly organized by ADA University, Azerbaijan's
Ministry of Agriculture, and the United Nations Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO).


Hayat said that more efficient irrigation management, timely
weather information, improved farming practices, and digital links
with buyers offer important opportunities for agricultural
development.


"Innovation does not always mean a complex or expensive
solution. A simple solution that saves water, reduces losses, or
helps farmers earn more is also an innovation. The key criterion is
whether it works on the farm," Hayat emphasized.


Speaking about the role of young people in this process, the FAO
representative cited KendMart, a digital platform developed by
14-year-old Azerbaijani student Leyla Heydarova. He said the
platform was designed to connect local farmers directly with
consumers and help small farms find customers.







Hayat also highlighted the role of universities, including ADA
University, stressing the importance of linking education and
scientific research to farmers' practical needs. He said combining
modern scientific knowledge with the experience farmers have
accumulated over generations helps preserve agrobiodiversity,
improve production, and strengthen resilience.


The FAO representative also emphasized the importance of
expanding access to finance, training, technology, and markets for
rural women, small-scale farmers, and young people.


He noted that 645 million people worldwide faced hunger in 2025,
while approximately one-third of the global population could not
afford a healthy diet. In this context, ensuring that existing
solutions are accessible and useful to those who need them remains
a key challenge.


Hayat said FAO remained committed to working with the
Azerbaijani government and its partners to translate the
organization's priorities of better production, better nutrition, a
better environment, and a better life into practical action.