Pioneering Farming Practices Drive Economic Growth in Najran
Agriculture has been a cornerstone of life in the Najran region for generations.
Blessed with fertile soil, a moderate climate, and diverse topography, the region has long been a hub for agricultural production. Farmers in Najran cultivate a wide variety of crops, including citrus fruits, wheat, grains, dates, and vegetables.
Driven by a passion for sustainable agriculture, farmers in Najran have embraced innovative techniques, cultivating new varieties of fruits, grains, and rare trees. These efforts have resulted in the production of safe, healthy food free of pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
One notable example is the successful cultivation of coffee trees in the region. Najran Coffee Cooperative Association CEO Ali Al Harith shared with the Saudi Press Agency his experience, which began in 2022 with the planting of 4,000 coffee seedlings.
He said that the region now boasts over 80 coffee farms that grow some 100,000 coffee trees ranging in age from 3 to 6 years. Coffee trees are planted almost year-round in the region, with the exception of the months of July and August. Flowering typically occurs in March, and harvesting in October.
Al Harith said the association plays a vital role in supporting coffee farmers by organizing workshops and facilitating post-harvest processing and marketing.
Hamad Al Abbas, a local farmer, embodies the spirit of sustainable agriculture in Najran. He successfully cultivated organic vegetables and leafy crops, as well as strawberries and stevia, a natural sweetener.
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in the region actively supports organic farming, providing guidance, facilitating access to organic inputs, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The ministry organizes workshops and awareness programs to educate farmers on organic agriculture and to encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly methods.
These initiatives demonstrate the region's commitment to sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental conservation. As Najran continues to embrace sustainable practices, it reinforces its position as a vital contributor to the Kingdom's goal of attaining food security.
