Royal Reserve Development Authority Empowers Youth with “Bee Basics” Training Program
In an effort to bolster the local economy, the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority has launched a groundbreaking “Bee Basics” training program that offers participants a unique opportunity to gain qualifications and skills in beekeeping and honey production.
Empowering the Youth and Promoting Economic Growth
The program, which combines both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical training, aims to not only enhance economic development and promote local products but also to empower young individuals by equipping them with the latest beekeeping technologies and certifications.
Strategic Goals for Community Development
By providing trainees with the necessary licenses from the Ministry of Environment, Agriculture, and Water, the authority ensures that participants can practice beekeeping and honey production in the royal reserve while adhering to strict environmental standards. Moreover, participants are equipped with essential tools such as local beehives, beekeeping jackets, and wax scrapers, along with ongoing technical support and marketing services.
Promoting Sustainable Honey Production
The royal reserve is renowned for its high-quality honey varieties, including sidr, talh, sayyal, and shafallah honey. To preserve natural resources, the authority facilitates the placement of beehives in designated areas that comply with regulations to ensure sustainability.
Investing in the Future of Honey Production
Since 2020, over 10,000 beneficiaries have benefited from a total funding of SR140 million ($37.3 million) through the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, known as Saudi Reef. With honey production in the Kingdom reaching 3,120 tonnes in 2023, a significant increase from 2021, the goal is to further elevate production to 7,500 tonnes by 2026.