Najran, December 22, 2024 – Agriculture has been an integral part of life in the Najran region for generations, with its fertile soil, temperate climate, and diverse topography creating an ideal environment for farming. Located in the southern part of Saudi Arabia, Najran has long been known as a hub for agricultural production, providing a wide array of crops that sustain local communities and contribute significantly to the broader agricultural sector of the Kingdom. Farmers in the region cultivate an impressive range of crops, including citrus fruits, wheat, grains, dates, and vegetables, with the area’s agricultural output playing a key role in ensuring the region’s food security and economic sustainability.
In recent years, however, the agricultural landscape of Najran has evolved significantly. Driven by a deep commitment to sustainable farming practices, local farmers have adopted innovative techniques and technologies to improve crop yield, diversify production, and reduce the environmental footprint of their agricultural activities. One of the most striking developments is the cultivation of coffee, a crop that had not been historically grown in the region. This shift reflects Najran’s broader push to explore new agricultural frontiers, diversify its offerings, and embrace modern farming practices.
The success story of coffee cultivation in Najran has become a symbol of the region’s agricultural innovation. The Najran Coffee Cooperative Association, under the leadership of CEO Ali Al Harith, has been instrumental in this groundbreaking initiative. The project began in 2022 with the planting of 4,000 coffee seedlings, and today, the region is home to over 80 coffee farms, collectively growing around 100,000 coffee trees. These trees, which are typically between 3 and 6 years old, have flourished thanks to Najran’s conducive growing conditions, with coffee cultivation occurring almost year-round, except during the peak summer months of July and August. Flowering typically takes place in March, with harvesting occurring in October, when the coffee cherries are at their peak.
Al Harith noted the importance of the association in supporting the region’s coffee farmers, emphasizing the organization’s role in providing essential resources such as workshops and guidance on post-harvest processing and marketing. This support has been crucial in helping coffee farmers navigate the complexities of the coffee market, ensuring that their high-quality produce reaches consumers in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
The commitment to sustainable farming practices in Najran extends beyond coffee cultivation. Local farmer Hamad Al Abbas is a prime example of this ethos. Al Abbas has successfully cultivated a variety of organic vegetables, leafy greens, strawberries, and even stevia, a natural sweetener. His success story underscores the growing trend of organic farming in the region, which has gained momentum in recent years due to increasing demand for healthier, environmentally friendly food options.
The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture plays a pivotal role in promoting organic farming throughout the Najran region. The Ministry’s branch in the area provides essential support to farmers by offering guidance on sustainable farming techniques, facilitating access to organic inputs, and organizing workshops to raise awareness about the benefits of organic agriculture. These initiatives have been critical in helping local farmers transition to more sustainable practices, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of environmental conservation and food security in the Kingdom.
As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to enhance food security and reduce the country’s reliance on imports, Najran’s embrace of sustainable agriculture is increasingly seen as a model for other regions. The area’s commitment to environmentally responsible farming practices not only helps ensure the region’s long-term agricultural viability but also aligns with the Kingdom’s broader objectives of improving self-sufficiency and achieving food security. By promoting sustainable agriculture, Najran is positioning itself as a vital contributor to the national food supply, reinforcing its role as a key player in Saudi Arabia’s agricultural future.
With its continued investment in innovative farming techniques, Najran is well on its way to solidifying its position as a leading agricultural hub in Saudi Arabia. The success of the coffee initiative, the growth of organic farming, and the ongoing support from local and national authorities demonstrate the region’s commitment to building a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector. As Najran’s farmers continue to embrace these forward-thinking practices, they are not only securing a brighter future for the region’s agricultural sector but also contributing to the Kingdom’s ambitious goal of attaining food security and environmental sustainability.
