Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the launch ceremony for a new product line from "Gheras," a division of the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment, known as "EKTIFA." This line features organic fruits and vegetables grown in the greenhouses of Al Dhaid, ensuring they are free from genetic modification.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Dr. Sultan visited the greenhouses covering three hectares as part of the initial phase. This phase features four greenhouses, each spanning 4,800 square meters, alongside an agricultural field of 6,800 square meters. Together, they are expected to produce around 250 tonnes annually. He explored a variety of organic vegetables, including eggplant, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, peppers, carrots, onions, beets, beans, and okra. He also took note of the organic blueberries, corn, kale, and broccoli available in the garden.
Sharjah Ruler was updated on the expansion plans for the sustainable greenhouses during its second phase, which will cover an area of 32 hectares. This phase will feature nurseries and open agricultural spaces, as well as a packaging facility, a honey production plant, and student accommodations. Additionally, it will include administrative offices, a meeting hall, and a state-of-the-art irrigation system that utilises smart technologies.
The Ruler of Sharjah received an update on the progress of the project, along with an overview of the key challenges faced by the team. Among these challenges were climate-related issues, which were successfully addressed by installing specialised cooling units in the multi-technology greenhouses. These units operate on a positive air pressure system, ensuring airflow that maintains optimal coolness and humidity levels. Additionally, this air movement creates a conducive environment for a variety of plants throughout the year, utilising the latest innovative technologies.
The opening ceremony included a speech by Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, the Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock and CEO of EKTIFA. He commended the efforts and contributions of the Ruler of Sharjah, highlighting his role in safeguarding the region's environment, fostering the growth of the agricultural sector, and preserving rare seed varieties. Al Tunaiji addressed the challenges hindering the expansion of agricultural activities, such as harsh weather conditions and limited water sources.
Al Tunaiji explained the implementation of sustainable greenhouses in collaboration with a national engineer. These greenhouses effectively manage the internal climate while relying entirely on solar energy. The greenhouses also incorporate cooling units that utilise a positive air pressure system, ensuring an optimal environment for various plants throughout the year.
Al Tunaiji highlighted the cultivation of "heirloom seeds," which have been preserved for over 50 years. These seeds boast high genetic diversity and are open-pollinated, allowing for collection and replanting while maintaining the plant's original characteristics. He noted that the greenhouse project is the first in the region to cultivate organic blueberries, a crop highly sought after by younger generations.
Frisch Immelmann from Austria, a global advocate for heirloom and non-GMO seeds, delivered a speech highlighting the significance of this unique agricultural practice. She discussed various seed types and initiatives promoting food security and agricultural sustainability. Immelmann expressed gratitude to the Ruler of Sharjah for his contributions to the agricultural sector.
The Ruler of Sharjah conferred a commemorative shield upon Frisch Immelmann, recognising her collaboration with the Emirate of Sharjah. The greenhouses project aims to create integrated agricultural development communities and promote the production of high-quality organic agricultural products. It utilises cutting-edge technologies to boost production through chemical-free organic farming, enhance plant density, and optimise water usage.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Sheikh Khalid bin Issam Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Civil Aviation, and Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, along with senior officials and local authorities.