The Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Fisheries laid the foundation stone for the Madhoob Model Farm project in Socotra.

Today, the Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Fisheries, Major General Salem Al-Saqtri, along with the Deputy Governor of Socotra Archipelago, Brigadier General Saleh Ali, and the Director of the Agriculture and Irrigation Office in the province, Yahya Bin Majid, laid the foundation stone for the establishment and reclamation of the Madhoobah model farm. This initiative receives funding from the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, in partnership with the World Food Programme, and is implemented by the Humanitarian and Development Aid Organization.

Project Details and Benefits

The project includes several key components aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity. It will establish a protective fence around the farm and construct a water reservoir with a capacity of 30 cubic meters. Additionally, the project will rehabilitate agricultural land and equip it with a drip irrigation system, supported by a solar-powered pumping system. The initiative also involves cultivating 5.5 acres of land, benefiting 60 families in the region.

Dr. Salem Al-Shanqabi, the Director of Programs at the Humanitarian and Development Aid Organization, emphasized that this project forms part of a broader agricultural initiative funded by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center in collaboration with the World Food Programme. He noted that the projects encompass the establishment of model farms in various areas, including Socotra, Madhoobah, Raqab, Afser, Haif, and Qalansiyah. Furthermore, the initiative aims to rehabilitate the Ma’noofah Agricultural Association farm and support millet farmers in the Tarubah area. In total, 700 families will benefit directly from these efforts.

Minister’s Call for Local Engagement

Minister Al-Saqtri expressed gratitude for the substantial support provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center. He highlighted that this assistance significantly contributes to the development of both the agricultural and fisheries sectors in Socotra. The Minister urged farmers to maximize their use of this support and to work towards enhancing local production of vegetables and fruits. He also assured that the ministry would facilitate the operations of organizations, supporters, and investors in the agricultural and fisheries sectors.

This model farm project represents a significant step forward in improving agricultural practices and food security in Socotra, ultimately benefiting the local community and fostering sustainable development in the region.

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