The National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD) held an award ceremony to honour the winners of the fifth edition of the King Hamad Award for Agricultural Development, in the presence of senior officials, representatives of public and private institutions, and experts from Bahrain and abroad.
Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, presented the awards across the three main categories. Al Ameen Gardens won the award for Best Agricultural Production Project for its use of advanced agricultural techniques to support food security and the national economy. Ghosn Bahrain Contracting received the award for Best Supporting Project for Agricultural Production for its smart irrigation systems that promote water efficiency and plant sustainability.
In the Best Bahraini Farmer category, Mirza Hassan and Ali Ashour were recognised for applying innovative farming methods and achieving high productivity. The award for Best Agricultural Research went to Dr. Majed Al-Sayyed Mohammed and Dr. Mohammed Naeem Sattar from King Faisal University in Saudi Arabia, for research contributing to sustainable agriculture and environmental solutions.
Farmer Abdulnabi Taher was also honoured for his consistent participation since the award’s inception and the notable development of his farm, representing a model of perseverance and commitment to sustainable progress. Judging panel members were recognised for their role in evaluating and monitoring the submissions.
Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Secretary-General of NIAD, highlighted that the award reflects His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s vision to support sustainable development and the strong interest of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and Chairperson of the Advisory Council of the Initiative, in advancing agricultural and environmental issues in Bahrain.
Shaikha Maram bint Isa noted that the award develops a competitive and innovative environment, promoting best practices in agriculture, supporting research, encouraging investment, and contributing to food security and the national economy.
Shaikha Maram bint Isa added that the award has developed with each edition, with improvements to evaluation standards encouraging innovation. In the Best Bahraini Farmer category, judges observed measurable improvements in farm quality and productivity among returning participants. There was also an increase in agricultural businesses and research submissions, reflecting the initiative’s success in supporting entrepreneurship and scientific advancement in the sector.
Following the ceremony, a scientific forum was held, where the winning researchers presented their findings and practical applications, in the presence of agricultural specialists, academics, and stakeholders, helping promote innovation in the sector.