Sharjah's Mleiha Dairy Farm Inaugurated By Ruler, Targets Organic Milk Production

In a significant stride towards sustainable agriculture and food security, H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the first phase of the Mleiha Dairy Farm. This event, which also saw the launch of the farm's visual identity, was attended by notable figures including H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.

The Ruler of Sharjah underscored the importance of integrating various productive projects within the emirate to ensure the provision of healthy food options for families. These initiatives span across vegetable production, wheat farming, dairy farming, and an upcoming poultry farming project. Furthermore, the establishment of the University of Al Dhaid is set to bolster these projects by supplying qualified personnel.

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Expressing satisfaction with the successful implementation of vegetable and wheat projects in Mleiha, His Highness revealed that the dairy farming project has been allocated a budget of approximately AED 600 million. The farm is home to 1,200 purebred Holstein cattle, renowned for their natural breeding without any genetic enhancements. Each cow is pregnant with a female fetus, aiming for a new generation of 1,200 cows every season, with plans for future expansion.

The comprehensive care provided to these cows encompasses health, environment, nutrition, and natural growth to ensure the production of high-quality milk. The ultimate goal is for Mleiha Dairy Farm to become the leading producer of clean, natural organic milk within three years. Specialized packaging techniques are employed to shield the milk from light and oxygen exposure, with a commitment to recycling these containers.

Addressing the complementary poultry project, His Highness detailed that it would involve slow-growing breeds raised through free-range farming and organic agriculture. These poultry will be nurtured on natural food sources and treated with traditional remedies to avoid growth accelerators, hormones, or artificial substances.

Highlighting the interconnected nature of these agricultural projects, His Highness emphasized the utilization of by-products from each project to support others or enrich soil with natural fertilizers. He also stressed the importance of nurturing children with proper social upbringing and values that reflect their culture, heritage, and faith for societal well-being.

During his tour of the farm facilities, His Highness viewed the barns, automated secondary parlour, and advanced technologies employed in monitoring cow health. The farm's design is climate-resilient and adheres strictly to organic laws and biosecurity measures to minimize stress on cows and ensure environmentally friendly milk production.

The Mleiha Dairy Farm stands as a pioneering initiative in the Middle East with its focus on natural breed cows known for their endurance and high-quality milk production. This milk boasts higher fat and protein content than that from common breeds, offering easier digestion and reduced risk of intestinal disorders. The farm represents a model for integrating agricultural and livestock production towards sustainable development through circular economy principles.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by several senior officials and dignitaries from across the region, marking a milestone in Sharjah's commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security.

With inputs from WAM