Saudi Arabia Shines Spotlight on Camels at Geneva Exhibition
In a bold move to highlight the significance of camels, Saudi Arabia has organized a captivating four-day exhibition in Geneva. This initiative is part of the kingdom’s presidency of the International Year of Camelids 2024, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency on Wednesday.
International Year of Camelids: A Global Celebration
The United Nations has officially declared 2024 as the International Year of Camelids, shedding light on how these majestic animals play a vital role in the livelihoods of millions of households in harsh environments across more than 90 countries. This designation particularly emphasizes the importance of camels for indigenous peoples and local communities.
Collaborative Efforts for Camel Appreciation
The Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations Office in Geneva has joined forces with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the Permanent Mission of the Plurinational State of Bolivia to the United Nations Office, and the United Nations Office at Geneva to organize this enlightening exhibition.
Exploring the Economic and Cultural Significance of Camels
Taking place from June 24-28, 2024, the exhibition aims to showcase the economic, social, and cultural importance of camels and their contributions to food security, nutrition, economic growth, and cultural heritage in over 90 countries. The Saudi section of the exhibition will spotlight locally manufactured camel products and their role in achieving food security in the Kingdom, along with highlighting the various medical benefits derived from these products.
Leading the Way in Camel Development
Heading the Kingdom’s delegation to the exhibition is Ali Al-Shaikhi, the undersecretary for fisheries and livestock wealth at the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture. In his address, Al-Shaikhi emphasized the pivotal role of camels in fostering economic development, ensuring food security, and advancing sustainable development goals in the livestock sector.
Saudi Arabia’s Commitment to Camel Welfare
Al-Shaikhi also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support for the camel sector, with the kingdom contributing $844,342 to back the IYC 2024. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has implemented various local and international initiatives to promote the camel sector as a cultural and heritage asset, showcasing its dedication to the well-being of these majestic creatures.
Empowering Communities through Camel Awareness
Saudi Arabia has taken significant strides in enhancing the camel sector both domestically and internationally, raising awareness among communities about the importance of camels in providing sustenance and livelihoods for breeders and owners. The kingdom has also emphasized the need for regular vaccination of camels, improved marketing strategies for camel products, and collaboration with international entities to enhance regulations and laws governing camel activities.
Fostering Innovation and Research in Camel Studies
In a bid to encourage scientific research and scholarship in the field of camels, Saudi Arabia has launched the “Camel Studies Grant,” supporting studies, authors, and translators specializing in camel-related topics. This initiative demonstrates the kingdom’s commitment to promoting knowledge and understanding of camels on a global scale.