Reef Saudi Pledges SAR140 Million To Elevate Honey Output To 7,500 Tons By 2026

The Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, known as "Reef Saudi," has announced a substantial investment in the Kingdom's burgeoning honey sector. Since its inception in 2020, the initiative has poured SAR140 million into the industry, aiding over 10,584 individuals across various rural areas. This financial injection has catalyzed a significant uptick in honey production, which soared to 3,120 tons annually by 2023, marking a 41% increase from 2021 figures. With an eye on the future, "Reef Saudi" aims to elevate annual production to 7,500 tons by 2026.

At the heart of this initiative is a comprehensive strategy designed to bolster the honey sector and augment the local bee population. This approach not only seeks to enhance self-sufficiency in honey production but also to preserve and expand the Kingdom's bee wealth by protecting it from diseases and pests. To this end, "Reef Saudi" extends crucial services to beekeepers in rural locales, encompassing inspection and expert guidance.

Key projects underpinning these efforts include the establishment of queen bee breeding stations and package production facilities across Hail, Najran, Jazan, Madinah, Tabuk, and Taif. Additionally, the program has facilitated the supply of three mobile laboratories tasked with examining and diagnosing bee diseases and pests directly at beekeeping sites. Complementing these laboratories are four mobile clinics equipped with essential tools for assessing bee health concerns on-site.

This rural development program is pivotal in promoting environmental sustainability and broadening the scope of Saudi Arabia's agricultural production. By nurturing rural communities, "Reef Saudi" plays a vital role in advancing national food security objectives. Furthermore, the program is instrumental in generating employment opportunities, enhancing small farmers' livelihoods, and improving their agricultural skills.

The initiative's multifaceted approach not only underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to agricultural diversification but also highlights the strategic importance of rural development in achieving broader economic goals. Through its concerted efforts in supporting the honey sector, "Reef Saudi" exemplifies how targeted investments can yield substantial dividends for both local communities and the national economy at large.

With inputs from SPA