- Saudi Arabia allocates $37 million to boost the honey sector, benefiting over 10,580 individuals in rural areas.
- Honey production in Saudi Arabia surges by 41% annually, reaching 3,120 tons in 2023 with a target of 7,500 tons by 2026.
- The program offers crucial services like inspection, guidance, and disease protection, prioritizing bee population preservation.
- Initiatives include establishing queen bee breeding stations, mobile laboratories, and clinics, contributing to food security and rural livelihoods.
Saudi Arabia is actively expanding its honey sector through substantial investments. Since 2020, the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, Reef Saudi, has allocated over $37 million (SR140 million) to support this endeavor.
This investment has already benefited more than 10,580 individuals in various rural regions across the Kingdom. By investing in the honey sector, Saudi Arabia aims to boost production and provide support to rural communities, ultimately contributing to the growth and sustainability of the agricultural industry in the country.
Boosting Honey Production in Saudi Arabia
The production of honey in Saudi Arabia has been steadily increasing, with an annual growth rate of 41 percent. In 2023 the honey production reached 3,120 tons reflecting a significant rise from the year 2021. With an ambitious target of reaching 7,500 tons per year by 2026, the country has adopted a multifaceted approach to achieve this goal.
The Reef Saudi program plays a vital role in supporting the honey sector. It provides beekeepers in rural areas with essential services such as inspection and guidance. Moreover, it prioritizes the preservation of the Kingdom’s bee population by protecting it from diseases and pests.
The goal is not only to increase honey production but also to boost the local bee population. By doing so, the aim is to contribute to self-sufficiency in honey production and ensure a sustainable honey industry for the future. This comprehensive approach is crucial for the growth and sustainability of the honey sector in Saudi Arabia.
Promoting Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development
Reef Saudi has undertaken several key projects aimed at achieving its objectives. One significant initiative includes establishing queen bee breeding stations and package production facilities across various regions including Hail, Najran, Jazan, Madinah, Tabuk, and Taif. These facilities play a crucial role in supporting local beekeeping communities.
Ensuring Bee Health
To ensure the health of bee colonies, Reef Saudi has supplied three mobile laboratories to examine and diagnose bee diseases and pests directly at beekeeping locations.
Additionally, four mobile clinics equipped with the necessary tools have been deployed to examine and diagnose bee health concerns in the field.
Contributing to National Food Security
By fostering the development of rural communities, Reef Saudi contributes significantly to reaching national food security goals. Moreover, the program supports the creation of job opportunities, improves the livelihoods of small farmers, and enhances their agricultural capabilities.
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