A protective measure enhances crop and livestock protection at the Qunfudhah Mango Festival
In a move aimed at strengthening food security and protecting the Kingdom's agricultural and livestock resources, the National Center for Plant Pest and Animal Disease Prevention and Control (Wiqa') actively participated in the 15th Mango Festival in Al-Qunfudhah Governorate. This participation was facilitated through a specialized awareness booth, organized in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture's office in the governorate, with the goal of equipping farmers and livestock breeders with the latest knowledge and preventative technologies.
Background and importance of the Qunfudhah Mango Festival
The Qunfudhah Mango Festival is a prominent annual event celebrating one of the region's most important agricultural crops. Over the past fifteen years, the festival has evolved into a vibrant economic and cultural platform, showcasing not only the finest mangoes but also facilitating the exchange of expertise among farmers, opening new marketing channels, and attracting investment to the region's agricultural sector. Located on the Red Sea coast, Qunfudhah Governorate boasts a fertile agricultural environment and a climate ideal for cultivating tropical fruits, making it a major player in national mango production.
The strategic role of “Wiqa” in supporting Vision 2030
The participation of the Waqaa Center in this important local event reflects its pivotal role in achieving the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, particularly regarding the sustainability of natural resources and achieving self-sufficiency in the agricultural sector. The center acts as a first line of defense in protecting plant and animal resources from biological hazards by implementing global best practices in monitoring, control, and prevention. Through its presence at agricultural events, Waqaa seeks to build bridges of direct communication with farmers, who are the cornerstone of the food security system.
Field awareness of the latest preventive methods
During the festival, specialists from the "Wiqaa" initiative provided field demonstrations and practical explanations to visitors at their pavilion, showcasing the latest methods used to protect agricultural crops, particularly mangoes, from insect pests and fungal diseases. Emphasis was placed on the importance of early pest diagnosis and the use of integrated pest management methods that reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and safeguard the environment and the final product. Regarding livestock, awareness was raised about the importance of regular vaccinations and biosecurity measures on farms to limit the spread of epidemic and zoonotic diseases that could be transmitted to humans.
Expected impact at the local and national levels
These awareness efforts have a direct and positive impact on local farmers, contributing to reduced production losses, improved crop quality, and increased economic returns. At the national level, protecting the agricultural sector from pests and diseases strengthens food supply chains, reduces import costs, and supports the Kingdom's efforts to diversify its economy. Furthermore, ensuring plant and animal health is fundamental to boosting Saudi agricultural exports to global markets, requiring the application of rigorous plant and animal health standards, which the Weqaa Center is continuously working to achieve.
