The United Nations honors the Secretary of “Reef Saudi Arabia” with the Medal of Honor for Sustainable Development
In a move reflecting international recognition of Saudi Arabia's efforts in agricultural development, the United Nations awarded Ghassan bin Mohammed Bakri, Secretary-General of the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Program "Reef Saudi Arabia," the First Class Medal of Honor for Sustainable Development. This honor recognizes his outstanding leadership role in implementing the program's objectives and enhancing its developmental impact in the Kingdom's rural sector.
UN recognition of the Kingdom's efforts in sustainability
This recognition is an international acknowledgment of the success of the strategies adopted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the agriculture and water sectors, which aim to achieve sustainable food security. This achievement is not a coincidence, but rather the result of diligent and continuous work overseeing impactful initiatives that empower small-scale agricultural producers, enhance rural production efficiency, and develop agricultural value chains. These efforts are directly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to eradicating hunger, providing decent work, and promoting economic growth in rural areas.
Saudi Arabia's countryside and Vision 2030
The Saudi Countryside Development Program is a key enabler for achieving the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 in the agricultural sector. The program works to improve the quality of life in rural communities by supporting vital sectors such as Arabica coffee, honey, fruits, and flowers, in addition to rainfed crops. The program’s leadership has contributed to transforming these sectors from traditional practices into industries with added economic value, thus enhancing the access of Saudi rural products to local markets and opening up future export opportunities.
Strengthening international partnerships and food security
The program indicated via its official account that this award reflects the success of "Reef Saudi Arabia" in expanding international partnerships and exchanging expertise. These partnerships are a cornerstone for localizing modern agricultural technologies, contributing to the rational use of natural resources, especially water, and increasing productivity. This international dimension not only benefits Saudi farmers but also positions the Kingdom among the leading countries in developing solutions to the agricultural and climate challenges facing the world.
Empowering farmers and developing communities
The humanitarian and social aspect of this award focuses on the tangible impact the program has had on the lives of thousands of productive families. Through financial support and technical training, the program has transformed small farmers into entrepreneurs who actively contribute to the national economy. The Order of Merit, First Class, affirms that the Kingdom's approach to rural development is sound and sustainable, ensuring that rural areas remain vibrant and productive, and achieving balanced development across the Kingdom's various regions.
