Experiences highlight innovation, sustainability and collective action

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has selected two agricultural success stories from Bahrain for its regional publication, Cooperators’ Voices – A Collective Journey Across Agrifood Systems in the Near East and North Africa.

The publication, issued to mark FAO’s 80th anniversary, features more than 70 inspiring stories from over 14 countries across the Near East and North Africa. The two Bahraini stories have also been published on the organisation’s website.

Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak said the selection reflects the achievements of Bahrain’s agricultural sector and the continued support provided to Bahraini farmers.

He highlighted the role of Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King and Chairperson of the Advisory Council of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development, in supporting farmers and advancing agricultural development.

The minister said the international recognition reflects the expertise of Bahraini farmers and their ability to combine traditional agricultural knowledge with modern technologies. He stressed the ministry’s commitment to supporting farmers and promoting successful national agricultural practices regionally and internationally.

Secretary-General of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa said the inclusion of the stories represents international recognition of Bahrain’s agricultural experiences, particularly in innovation, sustainability, collective work and supporting local production.

Undersecretary for Agriculture and Animal Wealth at the ministry Engineer Asim Abdul Latif Abdullah said the two stories were selected following review and evaluation of submissions from countries across the region. The ministry documented the Bahraini experiences through field interviews and visual materials and coordinated with FAO on their review and verification.

The first story, Mirza and His Family: Rooted in the Land, Lifted by Community in Bahrain, features farmer Mirza Hassan Mansoor of Bilad Al Qadeem. It documents his efforts to transform salt-affected agricultural land into a productive and sustainable farm using modern irrigation techniques and organic fertilisers.

The farm also involves his family, with his son contributing to smart irrigation systems and his daughter handling accounting and digital marketing. It has also become a space for educating students and sharing agricultural knowledge.

The second story, United Farmers: A Farmer’s Journey Towards Collective Strength in Bahrain, follows farmer Mohammed Mohsen of Buri and other Bahraini farmers working with the Bahrain Farmers Association.

The experience focuses on collective purchasing of seeds and fertilisers to reduce production costs, alongside sharing expertise in crop varieties, pest control, disease resistance and greenhouse design.

It also highlights the use of smart farming, hydroponics and shading technologies, as well as farmers’ role in supplying fresh produce to local markets during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The selection highlights Bahrain’s agricultural experience in sustainability, innovation, cooperation and food security.