In an effort to enhance local crop varieties suitable for the regional environment, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture of Saudi Arabia has announced a successful commercial harvest of three improved varieties of domestic wheat. This initiative was inaugurated by Minister Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli last February, achieving an impressive yield of 8,000 kilograms per hectare. This endeavor aims to bolster local production and contribute to the nation’s food security goals.
The ministry outlined that the local wheat cultivation project, which spanned three agricultural seasons, involved the experimentation with three distinct varieties: two types of soft wheat and one hard wheat variety known as “Durum.” These wheat varieties were cultivated over an area exceeding 45 hectares in the Al-Jouf region, in collaboration with Al-Jouf Agricultural Development Company, and under the aegis of the non-profit organization RIF. The project was closely monitored by the Seed and Seedling Center.
Field results from the wheat harvest demonstrated impressive productivity. Some of the fields yielded about 8,000 kilograms per hectare, exhibiting significant consistency in grain quality and the genetic traits of the wheat. This promising outcome indicates that these wheat varieties are poised for commercial expansion, potentially completing the production chain and competing effectively with imported varieties, thereby reducing reliance on imported seeds.
It is noteworthy that the initiative to cultivate these improved local wheat varieties aligns with the objectives set forth by the Seed and Seedling Center, aimed at enhancing local wheat strains. This project is also in line with the overarching goals of the National Agriculture Strategy, reflecting the ministry’s commitment to promoting sustainability within the agricultural sector and enhancing local production efficiency in accordance with the Vision 2030 framework.
The emphasis on developing locally adapted crop varieties is crucial for promoting agricultural resilience and food security. By investing in the cultivation of these improved wheat varieties, the Ministry aims not only to increase self-sufficiency in wheat production but also to contribute significantly to the nation’s overall agricultural productivity. The advancements made in local wheat farming are expected to pave the way for future innovations in agricultural practices, underscoring the ministry’s dedication to nurturing sustainable agricultural development.
In summary, the successful trials and subsequent commercial harvest of new domestic wheat varieties reflect a strategic initiative to strengthen the local agricultural landscape. With the ministry’s concerted efforts and ongoing research, the agricultural sector in Saudi Arabia is set to benefit from enhanced crop resilience and increased production capacity. This aligns with the broader objectives of energizing the agricultural framework and ensures a robust contribution to the Kingdom’s food security strategy, in line with its Vision 2030 aspirations.
