National program enables model Naeimi sheep farm project in Qassim

The National Program for the Development of the Livestock and Fisheries Sector has enabled the Faraed Association to receive a plot of land allocated by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the Qassim region, for the establishment of a model Naeimi sheep breeding project. The initiative aims to raise 20,000 Naeimi sheep, with an expected annual production of more than 221,000 kilograms of meat, as part of a red meat development plan to achieve self-sufficiency and strengthen food security, in support of Saudi Vision 2030 targets.

The project will allocate 30% of its output to contract farming, enhancing partnerships with rural farmers and improving production efficiency. It will also support small-scale breeders, promote rural development, and advance breeding practices to produce high-quality meat.

Project phases and facilities

The first phase includes the construction of model barns for breeding and fattening, laboratories, warehouses, and integrated administrative facilities. The second phase will see the establishment of a model automated slaughterhouse, enabling the use of animal by-products and enhancing the integration of the production chain.

Role of the national program and investor support

This project is part of the National Program's plan to develop the sheep and goat sector in the Kingdom and attract investors to this vital industry. The program has supported the project by supervising and assisting with land acquisition, preparing feasibility and technical studies, setting production targets, selecting suitable breeds, designing barn layouts, and developing genetic improvement programs in line with the project's goals.

Advantages of the Naeimi sheep breed

The Naeimi sheep is considered one of the most prominent local breeds, known for its high meat and wool yield, strong disease resistance, and meat quality, making it a preferred choice for sheep farming projects in the Kingdom.