BRASILIA, Brazil: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Eng. Abdulrahman Alfadley, highlighted the nation’s efforts to boost its agricultural sector during the G20 Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting in Brazil.
He noted that Saudi Arabia’s initiatives have increased the agricultural sector’s contribution to the GDP by 35%. A key focus of these efforts is supporting smallholder farmers and indigenous communities to ensure a sustainable food system.
Alfadley discussed the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, which aims to empower smallholders and rural communities by providing financing, agricultural services, and essential resources. This program has benefited over 120,000 individuals, helping farmers increase productivity and enhance their contributions to food security.
He also emphasized the importance of fisheries and aquaculture in Saudi Arabia’s food system, noting that local production has reached over 190,000 tons, covering 60% of the country’s consumption needs. Alfadley addressed global drought challenges and invited attendees to COP16, the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, to be held in Riyadh in 2024.
