Mleiha Dairy Factory: A New Record in Sustainable Agriculture

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the Mleiha Dairy Factory on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in food security encompassing an area of 20,000 square meters with a production capacity of nearly 600 tonnes.

During the inauguration, His Highness received a Guinness World Record certificate that recognizes Mleiha Dairy Farm as the world’s largest A2A2 cattle farm, situated in the Mleiha region. This impressive facility houses over 6,400 A2A2 cows, noted for their milk's substantial health benefits.

Welcoming Ceremony

Upon his arrival, the Ruler was greeted by His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, alongside other dignitaries including government ministers and senior officials.

A Vision Fulfilled

His Highness shared his joy at the realization of the Mleiha Dairy project, a dream 65 years in the making. He indicated that this undertaking is a testament to devoted service to the community, aimed at laying sustainable foundations for future generations.

Reflecting on its inception, the Ruler noted that the vision has now been actualized by young Emiratis, merging traditional values with modern knowledge.

Commitment to Food Security

He elaborated on Sharjah's expanding food security initiatives, showcasing advancements in agricultural facilities throughout the emirate and the specialized academic programs at the University of Al Dhaid aimed at nurturing professionals in this field.

His Highness emphasized the significance of reverting to organic development methods, particularly in desert areas, and the dangers posed by human intervention in genetics and chemical use.

A2A2 Breed and Health Focus

At the heart of Mleiha Dairy operations, the A2A2 breed thrives, providing milk celebrated for its digestibility and beneficial health attributes. The cows are raised under strict conditions, ensuring optimal milk purity and quality.

“Our priority isn’t profit,” His Highness stated. “It's the health of our people. Achieving self-sufficiency and providing healthy food is crucial for our nation.”

Broadening Agricultural Ventures

The Ruler also spotlighted additional sustainable agriculture initiatives, including the cultivation of olive trees on Jebel Deem, aimed at enhancing quality olive oil production.

The Flybirds project was mentioned as a benchmark for ethical poultry production, stressing free-range practices. Additionally, vegetable farming emphasizes original seed varieties cultivated through partnerships with German farms.

Where Tradition Meets Technology

Sharjah's agricultural advancements embrace technology as well, with digital systems to monitor essential growth conditions, enhancing production methods.

One such innovation is Sharjah wheat, achieving remarkable yields through meticulous management.

Factory Insights

Post-inauguration, His Highness toured the factory, examining cutting-edge facilities dedicated to the production of dairy products with a focus on eco-friendly practices.

During the visit, he observed the efficient operations at the milking parlour and other facilities, designed to prioritize both quality and animal welfare.

Recognizing Contributions

A visual presentation illustrated Mleiha's metamorphosis from desert land into a crucial agricultural hub, underscoring the role of the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Foundation in public health dynamics.

The event concluded with His Highness acknowledging the contributions of various federal and local entities and receiving honors for efforts in preserving rare cow breeds, marking a pivotal step in Sharjah’s journey towards sustainable food security.