NLFDP Signs MoUs to Boost Livestock Sustainability in Saudi Arabia

The National Livestock and Fisheries Development Program (NLFDP) signed two memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Delicious Food Factory (DFF) and Al-Lahoj Information Technology Company on October 30, 2024, in Riyadh, to enhance sustainability and investment in Saudi Arabia’s livestock sector. The agreements were signed on the sidelines of the third Saudi Pet and Vet Expo, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture from October 28 to 30, 2024. The event served as a platform to showcase NLFDP’s services in advancing veterinary medicine and supporting the pet sector, aligning with national food security goals.

Context and Background

NLFDP, a key initiative under Saudi Arabia’s agricultural transformation, aims to boost self-sufficiency and sustainability in livestock and fisheries. The program’s participation in the Saudi Pet and Vet Expo highlights its commitment to strengthening veterinary services and pet care, which are integral to broader livestock health and productivity. The MoUs were signed in the presence of Undersecretary of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and Vice Chairman of the NLFDP’s Board of Directors Ahmed Al-Ayada, underscoring government support.

Key Details of the Agreements

NLFDP Director of Investment and Financial Sustainability Princess Nouf bint Badr stated that the MoU with Delicious Food Factory (DFF) aims to support national food security, increase investment in livestock, and enhance production diversity in the Kingdom. The agreement with Al-Lahoj Information Technology Company focuses on integrating technology to improve livestock management and data-driven decision-making. These partnerships reflect NLFDP’s strategy to leverage private sector expertise for sustainable agricultural growth.

Implications for the Livestock Sector

The MoUs are expected to boost local livestock production, reduce reliance on imports, and create new investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia. By combining food processing capabilities with advanced IT solutions, the agreements will improve supply chain efficiency and animal health monitoring. This aligns with the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture’s vision to modernize the sector and ensure food security amid growing demand from a population of over 35 million.

Vision 2030 Alignment

These strategic partnerships directly support Vision 2030’s objectives of diversifying the economy, enhancing food security, and promoting private sector participation. By strengthening the livestock sector through innovation and investment, Saudi Arabia is building a resilient agricultural system that contributes to sustainable development and global market competitiveness.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the National Livestock and Fisheries Development Program (NLFDP)?

A1. NLFDP is a Saudi government initiative under the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, focused on enhancing the sustainability and productivity of the livestock and fisheries sectors to strengthen national food security.

Q2. Who signed the memoranda of understanding (MoUs) for NLFDP?

A2. The MoUs were signed by NLFDP Director of Investment and Financial Sustainability Princess Nouf bint Badr, alongside representatives from Delicious Food Factory (DFF) and Al-Lahoj Information Technology Company.

Q3. When and where were the MoUs signed?

A3. The MoUs were signed on October 30, 2024, in Riyadh, during the third edition of the Saudi Pet and Vet Expo, which took place from October 28 to 30.

Q4. What is the main goal of the MoU with Delicious Food Factory (DFF)?

A4. The MoU aims to support national food security, increase investment in livestock in Saudi Arabia, and enhance the diversity of livestock production through collaboration with the food processing sector.

Q5. What is the focus of the MoU with Al-Lahoj Information Technology Company?

A5. The MoU focuses on leveraging information technology to improve livestock management, data collection, and operational efficiency within the sector.

Q6. Who attended the signing ceremony?

A6. The signing was attended by Undersecretary of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and Vice Chairman of NLFDP’s Board of Directors Ahmed Al-Ayada, along with other officials and private sector representatives.

Q7. What is the Saudi Pet and Vet Expo?

A7. The Saudi Pet and Vet Expo is an annual exhibition that showcases advancements in veterinary medicine, pet care, and related technologies, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture.

Q8. How do these MoUs support Vision 2030?

A8. They align with Vision 2030 by promoting economic diversification, enhancing food security, and encouraging private sector partnerships to build a sustainable agricultural sector.

Q9. What role does Princess Nouf bint Badr play in NLFDP?

A9. Princess Nouf bint Badr serves as the Director of Investment and Financial Sustainability at NLFDP, overseeing financial strategies and investment initiatives to support the program’s goals.

Q10. Why is livestock sector sustainability important for Saudi Arabia?

A10. It reduces dependence on food imports, supports local farmers, ensures a stable food supply for a growing population, and contributes to the national economy under Vision 2030.

Q11. How does the MoU with DFF enhance production diversity?

A11. By partnering with a food processing company, NLFDP can introduce new livestock products, improve processing capabilities, and expand market offerings, increasing overall sector resilience.

Q12. What technology might Al-Lahoj IT provide to the livestock sector?

A12. Al-Lahoj IT can offer data analytics, farm management software, and monitoring systems to optimize livestock health, breeding, and supply chain logistics.

Q13. Is the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture involved in NLFDP?

A13. Yes, the Ministry oversees NLFDP’s activities, and its Undersecretary serves as Vice Chairman of NLFDP’s Board of Directors, ensuring alignment with national policies.

Q14. What was the role of the Saudi Pet and Vet Expo in these agreements?

A14. The expo provided a platform for NLFDP to showcase its services and network with potential partners, facilitating the signing of the MoUs to advance veterinary and livestock goals.

Q15. How will these MoUs impact food security in Saudi Arabia?

A15. By boosting local livestock production and investment, the MoUs help reduce reliance on imported food, ensuring more stable and self-reliant food supplies for the Kingdom.

Q16. What other initiatives does NLFDP undertake besides these MoUs?

A16. NLFDP runs programs to improve animal health, support fisheries, provide training to farmers, and promote sustainable practices across the livestock and fisheries sectors.

Q17. How does NLFDP collaborate with the private sector?

A17. NLFDP signs MoUs and partnerships with companies like DFF and Al-Lahoj IT to leverage private sector expertise, investment, and technology for agricultural development.

Q18. What is the significance of having Princess Nouf bint Badr as a lead negotiator?

A18. Her role reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to empowering women in leadership positions within Vision 2030, promoting gender diversity in key economic sectors.

Q19. Will these MoUs benefit the wider Gulf region?

A19. Yes, by setting best practices in livestock sustainability and technology integration, Saudi Arabia’s advancements can serve as a model for neighboring countries seeking food security solutions.

Q20. What are the next steps after signing these MoUs?

A20. The parties will develop detailed implementation plans, set timelines, allocate resources, and begin collaborative projects to achieve the MoUs’ objectives in boosting livestock sustainability and investment.

---