Help for farmers to boost local production

Manama: Nineteen Bahraini farmers have been provided with land plots as part of a plan to boost local production and achieve food security.

The Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry signed 10-year contracts which can be extended many times.

“The beneficiaries in Hoorat A’ali were selected as they are facing challenges due to scant farming land which threatens the sustainability of their activity,” said Under-Secretary for Agriculture and Marine Resources Dr Nabeel Abul Fateh.

Investment contracts have also been sealed with seven companies to grow crops which will contribute to increasing production, using modern methods, including hydroponics (soilless agriculture) and artificial intelligence.

Dr Abul Fateh stressed the government’s support, granting beneficiaries a 60 per cent discount on prices of modern irrigation materials, greenhouse covers, provision of pesticides and fishing traps.

The Agriculture and Marine Resources Agency also provides a range of free services, such as a nationwide project to combat red palm weevil and delivery of treated wastewater for agricultural use.

The ministry has also provided stalls for farmers to sell their agricultural produce at the Manama Central Market along with the annual Budaiya Farmers’ Market.

Source: http://www.gdnonline.com/Details/822460/Help-for-farmers-to-boost-local-production