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Innovators and pioneers in Bahrain’s agricultural sector were honoured yesterday at a ceremony held at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, Manama.
The fifth edition of the prestigious King Hamad Award for Agricultural Development celebrated skilled farmers and agricultural researchers in the kingdom.
Mirza Hassan and Ali Ashour shared the award for Best Bahraini Farmer for their innovative approaches that resulted in higher levels of efficiency and productivity.
Al Ameen Gardens won the award for Best Agricultural Production Project for its advanced techniques that support food security as well as the national economy.
Ghosn Bahrain Contracting received the award for Best Supporting Project for Agricultural Production for its smart irrigation systems that promote water efficiency and plant sustainability.
Dr Majed Mohammed from Egypt’s Menoufia University and Dr Mohammed Sattar from Saudi’s King Faisal University were honoured for the Best Agricultural Research for their projects which contributed to sustainable agriculture and environmental solutions.
The awards were presented yesterday by Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak and National Initiative for Agricultural Development secretary general Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa.
Launched in 2021 by Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty King Hamad and NIAD consultative council president, the award aims to create a positive competitive environment among agricultural entrepreneurs, Bahraini farmers as well as researchers in a way that contributes to preserving the agricultural sector, developing it and ensuring its sustainability.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Shaikha Maram said the awards come as part of directives from His Majesty King Hamad and HRH Princess Sabeeka.
“The main aim of the awards is to enhance and promote agricultural and environmental issues in Bahrain,” said Shaikha Maram.
Shaikha Maram speaking during the opening ceremony
“It has helped develop a competitive and innovative environment over the past five years, promoting the best practices in agriculture, supporting research, encouraging investment and contributing to food security and the national economy.
“The quality of nominees has steadily improved with each edition. Judges also observed major improvements in productivity among participants.
“There were more agricultural businesses and research submissions, which reflect the initiative’s success in supporting entrepreneurship and scientific advancement in the sector.”
Mr Ashour expressed his pride in taking home the award for the Best Bahraini Farmer.
“Winning this award means the world to me,” he told the GDN.
Officials at the award ceremony
“Every year, we farmers have been pushing ourselves to be better, more productive, more efficient and more sustainable,” he added.
“The agricultural sector is one of the most creative and innovative ones in Bahrain, and we are all very passionate about it.
“This award has motivated us to be better, and I am also encouraging my fellow farmers to show their creativity and apply for the honour in the coming years.”
Meanwhile, farmer Abdulnabi Taher was also honoured for his consistent participation in the awards since its inception and the development of his farm, which, according to the judging panel, revealed his perseverance and commitment to sustainable progress.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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