Up to 500 farmers in Sharjah are poised to receive 20 tonnes of organic, non-GMO wheat seeds as part of the emirate’s fourth phase of its significant food security initiative.
This week-long distribution, a gift from Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, is taking place at the Mleiha wheat farm’s administrative building.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock, aims to empower farmers by equipping them with essential resources to enhance organic wheat cultivation.
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By boosting local production, Sharjah aims to cut down on foreign imports and fortify its strategic food reserves.
Khalifa Musabeh Al Teneiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, highlighted the strategic value of this initiative. “Continuing the distribution of organic wheat seeds to farmers, as part of the Ruler of Sharjah’s grant, helps expand wheat cultivation and boost local production,” he explained. “This aligns with the government’s strategy to empower farmers to supply strategic agricultural products and reduce dependency on external imports.”
The support extends beyond seed provision. A team of specialized agricultural engineers will offer guidance and oversee crops throughout the season. Farmers will also receive training in modern agricultural techniques to adapt to the UAE’s climate and maximize output.
Besides direct support, the department is creating a smart agricultural platform to monitor registered farms via satellite. This platform will offer technical insights to improve production efficiency, enhance awareness about conserving natural resources, and facilitate communication between farmers and sales outlets for product marketing.
Mohammed Obaid Al Teneiji, Director of the Central Region Branch of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the support. “This grant goes beyond seed distribution; the department also provides services for ploughing and preparing agricultural land, along with agricultural guidance through regular farm visits,” he stated.
These visits address irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and growth monitoring to ensure optimal yield. At the season’s end, the department will also offer a specialized harvesting service.
Sharjah prioritizes organic wheat cultivation as a key element of its food security strategy.
The emirate is dedicated to expanding this innovative agricultural project to further increase output and encourage community involvement in providing sustainable food crops.
