Latest news with #NIAD


Daily Tribune
4 days ago
- General
- Daily Tribune
NBB drives green push
TDT | Manama More than 200 trees were planted across two towns in Bahrain this month as the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) took hands-on climate action to mark World Environment Day. The initiative, part of the national 'Forever Green' campaign, saw neem and jatropha seedlings take root along Road 55 in Zallaq and Road 20 in Zayed Town on May 17th. The drive was held in collaboration with the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD), the Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning, and the Supreme Council for Environment. Sustainability push Marking the fourth phase of the nationwide campaign, the effort resulted in the planting of 206 seedlings over a 2,518 square metre stretch of urban terrain. Zallaq received 118 neem trees across 745 square metres, while Zayed Town saw 76 neem and 12 jatropha trees planted over 1,773 square metres. NBB Group CEO Usman Ahmed and the Bank's Chief Strategy and Sustainability Officer Zaina Alzayani joined the official ceremony at the Zallaq site alongside Her Excellency Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Secretary-General of NIAD. They were accompanied by stakeholders from the agricultural and environmental sectors, as well as NBB employees who volunteered to support the initiative. Roots of change 'These actions stand as a model for effective public-private partnership in advancing national afforestation goals,' said H.E. Shaikha Maram. She emphasised that the campaign helps promote long-term sustainability in the Kingdom. Zaina Alzayani added that NBB's involvement reflects a long-standing commitment to environmental responsibility. 'It's a reminder that sustainability is built on consistency, accountability, and a shared vision for a healthier planet,' she said. The tree planting drive is part of NBB's broader Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agenda aimed at preserving Bahrain's natural landscape.

Al Bawaba
6 days ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
NBB Participates in Tree Planting Drive in Zallaq and Zayed Town
In commemoration of World Environment Day, the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) participated in a large-scale tree planting drive on 17th May 2025 across the Kingdom's Zallaq and Zayed Town localities. The activity was conducted under the 'Forever Green' campaign launched by the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD) in cooperation with the Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning, and the Supreme Council for Environment (SCE). The project aims to support national ambitions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change impact while enhancing Bahrain's aesthetic appeal and honouring its agricultural the fourth phase of the nationwide campaign, the event was organised in collaboration with the NIAD where a total of 206 seedlings were planted over a combined area of 2,518 square metres across Road 55 in Zallaq (745 square metres) and Road 20 in Zayed Town (1,773 square metres). 118 neem seedlings were planted in the Zallaq location, while 76 neem and 12 jatropha seeds were planted along the Zayed Town spot. These seed varieties are well-suited for Bahrain's arid climate and can withstand harsh environmental activity was inaugurated with an official ceremony at the Zallaq site in the presence of Her Excellency Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Secretary-General of NIAD, Usman Ahmed, Group Chief Executive Officer of NBB, and Zaina Alzayani, Group Chief Strategy and Sustainability Officer of NBB. They were joined by other stakeholders from the agricultural and environmental sectors as well as the Bank's employees who voluntarily took part in the exercise in support of a greener the occasion, Her Excellency Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Secretary-General of NIAD said, 'This ongoing collaboration with NBB stands as a model for effective public-private partnership in advancing the goals of this national afforestation campaign and promoting environmental sustainability in the Kingdom.'For her part, Zaina Alzayani, Group Chief Strategy and Sustainability Officer at NBB stated, 'Our involvement in this project reflects our long-standing belief that real change starts with deliberate action. We are proud to have made another contribution to the national sustainability objectives by helping increase Bahrain's green cover. Planting over 200 seeds across two important locations of the Kingdom is a meaningful way to translate our environmental pledges into tangible outcomes. It is a reminder that sustainability is built on consistency, accountability, and a shared vision for a healthier planet.' The tree planting drive forms part of NBB's wider Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) efforts aimed at contributing positively to the preservation of Bahrain's natural landscapes. Through active engagement, the Bank continues to serve its role as a responsible corporate citizen working diligently to promote ecological consciousness across the Kingdom.


Gulf Insider
23-02-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Bahrain Farmers' Market Extended Until March 8, 2025
Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities and Agriculture Affairs, announced the extension of the 12th Bahrain Farmers' Market in Budaiya for two additional weeks until March 8, 2025. The minister highlighted the market's role in supporting Bahrain's agricultural sector, in line with the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to enhance food security in alignment with the government's plan and the Sustainable Development Goals. The minister commended Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and Chairperson of the Advisory Council of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD), for her commitment to Bahraini farmers and agricultural development. He noted HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim's role in sustaining partnerships between the ministry, NIAD, and STC Bahrain to ensure the market's continued success. He reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to managing the extended market during the holy month of Ramadhan and supporting initiatives that strengthen Bahrain's food security strategy. Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Secretary-General of NIAD, said that HRH Princess Sabeeka's directives reflect her dedication to advancing the agricultural sector and maximising benefits for local farmers throughout the farming season. She noted the significant turnout for the 12th edition of the Bahrain Farmers' Market, attributing its success to extensive organisational efforts. She underscored that the extension would provide farmers with more opportunities to market their produce and allow the public to benefit from the market's offerings. Source Bahrain News Agency


Daily Tribune
22-02-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Extends Farmers' Market Until March 8, 2025
Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, His Excellency Eng. Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, has announced the extension of the 12th edition of the seasonal Bahraini Farmers' Market in Budaiya for an additional two weeks, now set to continue until March 8, 2025. The minister highlighted that the continuation of the market is a testament to Bahrain's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector. This aligns with the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the continuous support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in bolstering food security efforts in line with sustainable development goals and the government's strategic plan. His Excellency also praised the unwavering support of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King and Chairperson of the Consultative Council of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD). Her keen interest in supporting Bahraini farmers and fostering agricultural growth has played a crucial role in the success of the market. Through her direct patronage, the partnership between the ministry, NIAD, and STC Bahrain has been strengthened to ensure the market's annual organization. Al Mubarak emphasized the ministry's commitment to organizing the market during the extended period, which coincides with the holy month of Ramadan. He also commended various initiatives aimed at advancing the agricultural sector and positioning it as a key pillar in Bahrain's food security strategy. Meanwhile, Her Excellency Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Secretary-General of NIAD, reaffirmed that the directives of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka reflect her dedication to enhancing the agricultural sector, supporting local farmers, and ensuring they maximize the benefits of the farming season. She noted that the high turnout at the 12th edition of the Bahraini Farmers' Market underscores the tremendous efforts invested in its organization. The decision to extend the market, she added, will provide further opportunities for farmers to market their products while allowing the public to benefit from the fresh and locally grown produce available.


Biz Bahrain
11-02-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Bahrain International Garden Show 2025 to be held February 20
Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of the Advisory Council of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD), the Bahrain International Garden Show 2025 will take place on February 20 – 23 at Hall 3 of the Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir. Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Secretary-General of NIAD, emphasised that the exhibition is the Kingdom's premier agricultural event, reflecting Bahrain's commitment to the global agricultural sector and environmental sustainability. She highlighted that the show builds on a long record of success, establishing itself as a regional and international platform for showcasing the latest innovations in horticulture and agricultural technology. She noted that it serves as a unique platform bringing together investors, farmers, researchers, and experts from various countries to exchange ideas and expertise, contributing to enhanced agricultural production and food security at both local and global levels. – Supporting Bahraini farmers Shaikha Maram bint Isa added that the show will feature a dedicated national pavilion with the participation of 16 Bahraini farmers. It will showcase a wide range of local agricultural products, reflecting the significant development of the Kingdom's agricultural sector. This initiative aims to support and encourage Bahraini farmers, enabling them to showcase their capabilities and strengthen the competitiveness of the Bahraini agricultural sector on the international stage. The exhibition will also provide opportunities for farmers to access new markets, establish joint projects, explore trade expansion, and promote agricultural tourism in Bahrain. Shaikha Maram bint Isa noted that the participating farmers were selected through a draw to ensure equal opportunities for those interested in taking part. – Significant international participation The Secretary-General underscored that 121 exhibitors from around the world will take part in the exhibition, including 68 local exhibitors and 53 international exhibitors representing 19 countries. She highlighted that this broad international participation underscores the show's growing significance as a global platform for fostering cooperation and exchanging experiences in agricultural production. Participants will include experts from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman, as well as from the Middle East and North Africa region, such as Jordan, Syria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Additionally, representatives from Asian nations including China, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia will participate, alongside exhibitors from Russia, New Zealand, Brazil, and Argentina. – Supporting entrepreneurship in Bahrain's agricultural sector Shaikha Maram bint Isa emphasised that the exhibition will provide a distinguished platform for Bahraini entrepreneurs under the umbrella of 'Export Bahrain' and with support from Tamkeen, enabling them to showcase their innovative agricultural products. This initiative seeks to enhance the reach of Bahraini products in regional and international markets, highlighting their quality and competitiveness. The exhibition aligns with efforts to empower Bahraini entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector by providing comprehensive support to develop their capabilities and transform their ideas and products into globally competitive exports. – Diverse activities Shaikha Maram bint Isa highlighted that the exhibition will feature interactive pavilions aimed at raising agricultural awareness and promoting environmental sustainability. These include an exclusive pavilion for NIAD showcasing key achievements and initiatives supporting Bahrain's agricultural sector. Additionally, a pavilion dedicated to lectures and workshops will offer educational and practical sessions on modern agriculture, environmental sustainability, and agricultural innovations, catering to all age groups. A dedicated children's pavilion will provide interactive educational programmes designed to enhance environmental awareness and encourage children to explore the world of agriculture and horticulture. – Celebrating 60 years of Bahrain Garden Club The NIAD Secretary-General highlighted that this year's Bahrain International Garden Show coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Bahrain Garden Club (BGC), which has played a key role in promoting horticulture and raising environmental and agricultural awareness over the decades. Shaikha Maram bint Isa noted that the club has completed the assessment of home gardens in the competition for the His Majesty the King's Cup and concluded the photography contest for the Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Cup. Additionally, the club has completed the assessment of eco-friendly gardens in the competition for the His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup, alongside the evaluation of school gardens. The assessment of student projects is set for February 17, while the evaluation of adult entries will take place on February 18. The exhibition will feature a dedicated pavilion highlighting the club's contributions and long-standing role in the agricultural sector. The pavilion will showcase BGC's history, achievements, and initiatives that have supported gardening enthusiasts across the Kingdom. Shaikha Maram bint Isa thanked all entities supporting the exhibition, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Information, the Ministry of Tourism, Moda Mall, Tamkeen, the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (BSC), GFH Financial Group, Bapco Energies, the Bahrain Development Bank, and Al Salam Bank. She also thanked media partners including Akhbar Al Khaleej, Al Ayam, Al Bilad, Al Watan, the Daily Tribune, and the Gulf Daily News, commending their crucial role in promoting and supporting the exhibition as part of their commitment to advancing the agricultural sector and national initiatives aimed at increasing its contribution to GDP. The Secretary-General invited the public to visit the exhibition and take advantage of its diverse programmes and activities. The show provides an opportunity to explore the latest products and technologies in the Bahraini and global agricultural markets, offering an ideal opportunity for those interested in agriculture, sustainability, and environmental innovations. It creates a unique environment that combines education and entertainment in an inspiring setting. BNA(R)