The third millet festival kicks off in Bariq under the patronage of the Prince of Asir
His Royal Highness Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Asir Region, will inaugurate the third annual Millet Festival tomorrow in Bariq Governorate, located approximately 120 kilometers north of Abha. This important agricultural event is being held under the direct supervision of the Asir branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and organized by the Bariq Agricultural Cooperative Society, with broad participation from government agencies and the private sector, reflecting the concerted efforts to support the agricultural sector in the region.
Supporting the local economy and achieving the goals of the vision
The organization of this festival aligns with the strategic directions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on achieving food security and supporting local content. Agricultural festivals are an effective tool for stimulating economic activity in the provinces, with this festival primarily aiming to support farmers and empower productive families by providing direct marketing platforms. This initiative contributes to strengthening the agricultural value chain for millet and opening sales channels that guarantee farmers a rewarding economic return, thus encouraging continued and expanded cultivation.
Millet: An agricultural heritage and high nutritional value
Millet holds a special place in the agricultural heritage of Bariq Governorate and the Asir region in general. It is an ancient crop deeply intertwined with the lives of our ancestors due to its suitability to the local climate and environment. Millet is distinguished by its high drought tolerance and low water requirements compared to other grains, making it a strategic choice in the face of water scarcity challenges. Globally, millet is gaining increasing attention as a "super grain" due to its high nutritional value, gluten-free nature, and high protein, fiber, and mineral content, enhancing its potential as a promising national and healthy product.
Diverse activities and agricultural tourism
The Palm Walkway in Bariq Governorate is set to host the festival's events, opening its doors to visitors daily during the evening. The festival will feature various sections showcasing not only millet grains but also processed products and food derivatives that incorporate millet, highlighting innovation in local food industries. The event will also include informational booths for entities related to the agricultural sector, and extensive participation from local families offering traditional foods and handicrafts.
In addition to its marketing aspect, the festival focuses on raising awareness through accompanying programs and events that highlight investment opportunities in the sector and best agricultural practices for increasing productivity. The festival is expected to attract a large number of visitors and those interested in culinary heritage and rural tourism, contributing to placing Bariq Governorate on the Kingdom's agricultural tourism map and enhancing the cultural and social dynamism of the region.
