Jazan: A team of experts from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) visited rain-fed farms in Jazan Region as part of the ongoing cooperation between the organization and the region’s branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture. The visit aimed to assess the status of agricultural practices and support efforts towards the transition to sustainable agricultural systems.

According to Saudi Press Agency, to assess rain-fed agriculture practices and technologies, the FAO team visited Jazan Region’s research and agriculture center’s field from April 8 to 10, conducting an inspection. Their visit included a review of the center’s seed laboratory, its seed varieties, and its role in improving agricultural quality with superior, disease-free seeds. They further examined the bio-laboratory’s contribution to food security by enhancing crop productivity and sustainability.

The research and agriculture center’s director, Engineer Awaji Abu Al-Ghaith, briefed the team on the center’s activities and objectives, emphasizing initiatives in rain-fed agriculture and its contribution to food security and environmental sustainability. He also presented recommendations and ideas for advancing rain-fed agriculture and discussed the challenges these systems face in the region.

Touring several rain-fed farms in Jazan Region, the team directly observed the efforts of local farmers, their rain-fed agricultural methods, and the technologies they employ to preserve soil fertility and minimize water waste, despite the region’s climatic and environmental challenges.