Support for farmers and agricultural development

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi praised the strong reputation earned by the emirates products in many countries attributing this to their return to natural origins He revealed that 580 farmers have benefited from the wheat seed distribution initiative under the supervision of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock commending their efforts in developing the agricultural sector while highlighting key challenges they face

Comprehensive support for farmers

His Highness affirmed that the Department provides an integrated range of services to farmers, including cultivation ploughing, and rehabilitation of non arable land whether affected by chemicals or sandy soil that does not retain water He praised specialists for successfully developing nano clay technology which will be distributed to farmers to improve soil quality and increase productivity 

Addressing water challenges and reducing costs

His Highness addressed challenges related to water use in agriculture and rising costs reassuring farmers of supportive projects aimed at reducing expenses These include drip irrigation projects in Kalba and Al Madina Lake as well as government initiatives to support electricity costs He emphasised the importance of proper marketing to enhance the reputation of agricultural products as healthy and reliable

Expanding initiatives and increasing production

The Ruler of Sharjah invited UAE farmers who have not yet benefited from the wheat seed initiative to join highlighting its benefits for both farmers and the community He reaffirmed continued full support for achieving higher levels of toxin free agricultural production and revealed plans to establish a new wheat farm with similar specifications to double production and expand into global markets

Integrated agricultural ecosystem

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah concluded by emphasising the integration of agricultural projects in the emirate to support food security and promote healthy food concepts He noted that this system includes the wheat farm Mleiha Dairy project Fili poultry as well as vegetable and fruit cultivation contributing to the provision of high quality natural products that benefit society and support sustainable food systems

Advanced harvesting and cultural activities

The Ruler of Sharjah observed the fourth wheat harvest carried out using advanced machinery capable of harvesting separating grain from chaff collecting straw and compressing it into bales The ceremony also featured a performance by children expressing their welcome and appreciation for His Highness s efforts in providing safe and healthy food

Launch of Mazraaty platform and QAND brand

His Highness inaugurated the Mazraaty digital platform enabling farmers and livestock breeders to access government services efficiently supporting digital transformation and sustainability The platform represents a smart agriculture model using advanced thermal imaging and data analysis technologies providing periodic reports and early alerts on crop health indicators

He also launched the QAND luxury sweets and chocolate brand based on organic Iktifa ingredients positioning it as a global Emirati product that transforms natural resources into a cultural message representing Sharjah s identity

Scientific research and innovation

His Highness reviewed scientific research conducted by the Department of Agriculture and Livestock including wheat strain improvement programmes implemented in the UAE s first specialised biotechnology laboratory for wheat These efforts form a comprehensive vision for a more sustainable agricultural system that utilises resources efficiently while preserving the environment and leveraging modern technologies

Promoting healthy food awareness

He also reviewed the outcomes of the Baba Sultan Healthy Food programme which promotes healthy eating concepts in educational environments The programme contributed to the adoption of a healthy food charter by 57 educational institutions including schools and nurseries across Sharjah fostering awareness and sustainable food culture among younger generations

Student projects and innovation

Students from Rubu Qarn Science and Technology presented innovative projects, including the Ghaith smart robot designed to combat desertification and enhance food security through automated agricultural processes Additional research explored the impact of fungal suspensions on wheat growth and their role in supporting sustainable agriculture

Academic contributions and research findings

Students from the University of Sharjah presented research on nano clay applications in wheat farming using advanced techniques while University of Al Dhaid students showcased studies on Mleiha dairy products and Sabaa Sanabel flour as well as preliminary research on improving date seed germination through thermal treatment

Encouraging youth engagement in agriculture

His Highness met with children demonstrating early agricultural talent in cultivating land and growing vegetables using modern techniques These experiences strengthened their connection to the land and sense of responsibility toward the environment reflecting growing awareness of agriculture s importance in achieving food security

Artistic and documentary presentations

The ceremony began with a sand art performance titled Harvest of Vision illustrating the transformation from a single seed into an integrated organic food system A documentary highlighted Sharjah organic food security system which is based on advanced scientific research including nano clay and wheat improvement technologies

Nano clay technology enhances wheat cultivation

His Highness viewed a visual presentation highlighting the key results of using nano clay in wheat cultivation through advanced and specialised techniques Locally produced nano clay is made from natural materials extracted from valleys beds then processed and combined with biological compounds to enhance its efficiency improve soil fertility increase water retention and boost crop growth and productivity in arid environments

Proven efficiency compared to other materials

The presentation also demonstrated clear differences between soil treated with local nano clay and untreated soil particularly under water stress conditions The efficiency of locally produced nano clay was found to be slightly higher than that of bentonite clay across all tests paving the way for adopting this technology in future sustainable and organic agriculture projects

Praise for Sharjah s food security efforts

Engineer Dr Eng Khalifa Al Tunaiji Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock delivered a speech praising the efforts of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi in advancing the food security system He expressed his gratitude for the significant support provided by His Highness and reviewed several global reports highlighting Sharjah s food projects and their remarkable achievements in organic products

Honouring strategic partners

His Highness honoured a number of strategic partners whose support and cooperation contributed significantly to the success of the fourth agricultural season of the wheat farm in Mleiha He expressed his appreciation and presented them with commemorative shields wishing them continued success and ongoing collaboration

Cultural closing ceremony

The ceremony concluded with a performance titled Baba Sultan Taught Us presented by a group of children acting as Food Ambassadors The performance introduced the Baba Sultan Healthy Food programme and its goals of promoting healthy eating habits among children

Commemorative gift and recognition

His Highness received a commemorative gift created by more than 2000 students from Sharjah schools in recognition of his efforts in the agricultural sector and food security, as well as his commitment to establishing a sustainable organic food system and providing safe healthy food for the community

Attendees

The event was attended by Sheikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi Chairman of the Sharjah Ports  Customs and Free Zones Authority Sheikh Dr Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi Chairman of the Ruler s Office Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi Chairman of the Department of Government Relations Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi Chairman of the Districts Affairs Department Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Hamid Al Qasimi Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Chairman of Abu Dhabi Agricultural Club Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Nuaimi Chairman of Ajman Port and Customs Department Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi Director General of Sharjah Digital Department Sheikh Rashid bin Saqr Al Qasimi Director of the Finance Department along with a number of senior officials including heads and directors of federal and local entities