Sharjah Ruler Launches Gheras Organic Products To Promote Sustainable Agriculture
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the launch of a new product line from "Gheras," part of the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment, known as "EKTIFA." This line offers organic fruits and vegetables grown in Al Dhaid's greenhouses, free from genetic modification.
The initial phase includes four greenhouses, each covering 4,800 square metres, along with an agricultural field of 6,800 square metres. Together, they are expected to yield around 250 tonnes annually. Sheikh Dr. Sultan explored various organic vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, peppers, carrots, onions, beets, beans, and okra.
During his visit, Sheikh Dr. Sultan was briefed on the project's expansion plans. The second phase will cover 32 hectares and include nurseries and open agricultural spaces. It will also feature a packaging facility, a honey production plant, student accommodations, administrative offices, a meeting hall, and a smart irrigation system.
Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji delivered a speech at the ceremony. He praised the Ruler of Sharjah for his role in preserving the region's environment and promoting agriculture. He highlighted challenges like harsh weather conditions and limited water sources that hinder agricultural development in the region.
Al Tunaiji explained how traditional plastic greenhouses were resource-intensive but failed to create optimal environments for trees. By collaborating with a national engineer, they implemented sustainable greenhouses using solar energy and cooling units with positive air pressure systems to maintain ideal conditions year-round.
The project focuses on cultivating "heirloom seeds," preserved in families for over 50 years. These seeds offer high genetic diversity and adaptability to different environments while maintaining their original characteristics. They provide plants with rich flavours and resilience to varying conditions.
Organic Blueberries: A Regional First
The greenhouse project is pioneering organic blueberry cultivation in the region. Blueberries are highly beneficial and popular among younger generations. The global market for blueberries is valued at $2.5 billion; the UAE imports $19.5 million worth annually. These blueberries will be used in fruit yogurt products at Mleiha Dairy Farm.
Future plans include expanding the greenhouse project under His Highness's directives to cover 32 hectares. The development will focus on training programmes for students at the University of Al Dhaid's College of Agriculture and providing training for farmers in sustainable agriculture practices.
A Vision for Sustainable Agriculture
The farm will welcome public visits and school groups for educational experiences. Al Tunaiji emphasised that these initiatives represent a long-term strategic vision aimed at establishing a greener future connected to heritage and agriculture while redefining human-nature relationships.
A video titled "The Story of Future Agriculture" showcased modern smart systems in agriculture that create ideal plant environments while being eco-friendly. It highlighted significant strides made since introducing non-genetically modified seeds from planting to harvesting crops.
Global Recognition for Agricultural Initiatives
Frisch Immelmann from Austria spoke about heirloom seeds' importance globally during her speech at the event. She expressed delight at participating in this initiative in Sharjah and discussed safeguarding seeds from genetic modification while promoting food security through sustainable practices worldwide.
A video clip featured Fresh Immelmann farm's transformation into a seed bank recognised as Europe's best farm for organic seed production due to collaborations with European partners supplying EKTIFA with heirloom seeds via Rainsaat company ownership by Frisch Immelmann herself!
Acknowledging Contributions
The Ruler of Sharjah presented Frisch Immelmann with a commemorative shield recognising her dedication towards collaboration efforts within Emirate Sharjah itself! The greenhouse project aims to create integrated agricultural communities producing high-quality organic products using advanced technologies ensuring optimal growing conditions despite weather fluctuations or pests affecting crop yields negatively otherwise!
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Sheikh Khalid bin Issam Al Qasimi; Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi; senior officials; department heads; local authorities; dignitaries from across regions witnessing this significant event unfold before them all together unitedly celebrating success achieved thus far collectively working towards better tomorrow ahead indeed!
With inputs from WAM
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