Saudi Arabia's rural sector supports fishermen with 1,450 engines and tracking devices
In a significant step aimed at enhancing food security and supporting small-scale producers, the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Program, "Reef Saudi Arabia," has launched a large-scale strategic project to modernize the artisanal fishing fleet in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The initiative includes equipping small-scale fishermen's boats with the latest technological and mechanical equipment, including 1,450 engines and satellite tracking devices, to meet the needs of fishermen in six key regions of the Kingdom.
Logistical support to enhance operational efficiency
This project is part of the program's efforts to improve production efficiency in the fisheries sector. Official statistics revealed the supply of 450 new marine engines with advanced technical specifications and power outputs ranging from 40 to 75 and 100 horsepower. This modernization aims to replace older engines, which represent a financial and operational burden on fishermen, thereby reducing maintenance costs and fuel consumption, and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of food supply chains.
This step is particularly important given the Kingdom's geographical location, with its extensive coastlines on the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, making the fishing sector a cornerstone of the local economy in coastal areas. Supporting artisanal fishermen is an integral part of the national food security strategy, as this sector contributes to providing fresh seafood to the local market, reducing reliance on imports and boosting the gross domestic product.
A quantum leap in maritime safety standards
The support wasn't limited to the mechanical aspect; the program prioritized the safety of lives and property. In this context, the program's official spokesperson, Majid Al-Buraikan, explained that the initiative included the distribution of 1,000 state-of-the-art satellite-based distress beacons (EPIRBs). These devices represent a significant leap forward in safety procedures, ensuring rapid response to emergencies and highly accurate boat location at sea. This enhances the sense of security for fishermen and their families and encourages younger generations to pursue this profession.
Geographic distribution and sustainable economic impact
The project map encompassed six vital regions: Mecca, Medina, the Eastern Province, Tabuk, Asir, and Jazan. This comprehensive distribution ensures that support reaches the largest possible segment of beneficiaries along Saudi Arabia's most important coastlines. This support is expected to positively impact the financial stability of fishermen, aligning with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to improve the quality of life in rural and coastal areas and transform fishing from a struggling traditional activity into a productive and sustainable sector that effectively contributes to the national economy.
