KUWAIT: A Kuwaiti delegation participated in an agricultural program in the United Kingdom aimed at fostering knowledge and experience exchange between the two countries in agriculture and greening practices. This initiative seeks to develop sustainable agricultural practices in Kuwait and strengthen cultural and environmental connections between the two nations.

Members of the delegation, including Sheikha Sharifa Jaber Al-Ali Al-Sabah, Al-Zainah Al-Babtain, and Dana Al-Mutawa, expressed their pride in representing Kuwait in this program, which is part of the celebration of 125 years of diplomatic relations between Kuwait and the UK, held in collaboration with the UK-based “The King’s Foundation,” as part of the celebrations marking the 125th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Kuwait and the United Kingdom. They highlighted the unique opportunity to visit the King’s residence, Highgrove House, and experience the sustainable gardening practices in the Highgrove Gardens. The delegation also visited the royal residence Dumfries House in Scotland, where they explored sustainable horticultural strategies and toured various gardens and institutions specialized in advanced agricultural techniques. The delegation played a role in crafting a future exchange training program, a significant step toward sustainable agricultural development in Kuwait.

Sheikha Sharifa highlighted her successful efforts in growing various ornamental plants and trees in Kuwait’s desert climate, a passion inspired by her mother. Since 2012, she has cultivated over 30 plant species previously thought unsuitable for the Gulf region and organizes open days at her garden in Khaleej Al-Julaia to raise raise awareness about horticulture in Kuwait and the Gulf. She also documents her experience on Instagram at (evergreen_kwt).

Al-Zainah Al-Babtain emphasized her dedication to home gardening, particularly organic practices, aiming to encourage a healthy lifestyle within the Kuwaiti and Gulf communities. She shares her gardening insights on Instagram (@itallgrows), where over 1.3 million followers receive beginner-friendly guidance on cultivating vegetables and herbs, from small gardens to containers. Through her e-commerce site (www.plantnmore.com), she supports home gardeners with resources and tools, encouraging sustainable practices like recycling and reducing chemical use.

Dana Al-Mutawa, who manages Sadeer Farm, one of Kuwait’s largest and most productive farms, highlighted the farm’s high standards in livestock farming and innovative agricultural practices focused on sustainability and efficiency. Sadeer Farm, known for producing a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and rare flowers, offers unique hands-on experience for visitors and students, allowing them to harvest fresh produce. The farm collaborates with local chefs and restaurants, aiming to expand its reach with new, affordable, high-quality products while promoting sustainable practices, showcased on Instagram (@sadeer_farms).

The Kuwaiti government signed in July a multi-faceted cooperation agreement with the King’s Foundation as part of the 125-year celebrations of diplomatic relations between Kuwait and the UK.

Under the agreement, two agricultural facilities would be developed at Highgrove House, offering educational opportunities and encouraging knowledge exchange among young Kuwaiti and British gardeners. The initiative would also establish a three-year horticultural exchange program, focusing on sustainable horticulture, food security, and climate resilience. The initiative would also establish a three-year horticultural exchange program, focusing on sustainable horticulture, food security, and climate resilience. — KUNA