On April 10, 2025, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the Municipality of Anogeia and the Mediterranean Agrifood Competence Center (MACC). The memorandum was signed by the Mayor of Anogeia, Mr. Sokratis Kefalogiannis, and the CEO of MACC, Dr. Michalis Katharakis, at the MACC premises.
This partnership recognizes the deep historical connection of the local community of Anogeia with the primary sector and is part of the Municipality’s strategy for resilience and sustainable development, fully aligned with the European Green Deal and the “Farm to Fork” strategy.
The cooperation focuses on the creation of the innovative MACC SOIL Living Lab in the Anogeia region. This is an advanced “living laboratory” that will utilize modern technologies such as drones and smart sensor networks to monitor and optimize agricultural production. The goal is the digital mapping of local crops, real-time data collection, and the development of sustainable and resilient farming practices tailored to the specific conditions of the region.
The Memorandum of Cooperation also includes:
- Educational programs to enhance the digital skills of local producers and familiarize them with new technologies
- Advisory support to improve the quality and competitiveness of local products
- Development of sustainable agricultural practices to address environmental challenges and the impacts of climate change
- Promotion of the circular economy and utilization of agricultural by-products
- Joint pursuit of funding opportunities from European and national programs (Horizon Europe, LIFE, INTERREG, PRIMA)
- Establishment and strengthening of resilience in agrifood production
In his statement, the Mayor of Anogeia, Mr. Sokratis Kefalogiannis, emphasized:
“By leveraging the expertise of MACC and the innovative technologies to be implemented through the MACC SOIL Living Lab, we aim to create a modern, sustainable, and competitive agrifood sector that will contribute to resilience, economic development, and the prosperity of the local community.”
On his part, the Director of MACC, Dr. Michalis Katharakis, highlighted:
“The cooperation with the Municipality of Anogeia, a region with a rich agricultural and livestock tradition, is a strategic choice for us. MACC is committed to providing its expertise and resources for the successful implementation of the MACC SOIL Living Lab and the promotion of innovation and resilience in the agrifood sector. We believe that through this cooperation, new opportunities will be created for farmers and livestock breeders in the area, and we will contribute to the promotion of local products in national and international markets.”
To monitor and coordinate the cooperation, the establishment of a Joint Monitoring Committee is foreseen, consisting of representatives from the Municipality, MACC, and the local agricultural community.
The duration of the Memorandum of Cooperation is set at three years, with the possibility of renewal.