Sustainable smart farm opens in Dhi Qar, introducing contemporary agriculture

DHI QAR — A state-of-the-art sustainable farm has been inaugurated within the Youth and Sports Forum in Suq Al-Shuyukh, Dhi Qar, showcasing innovative agricultural systems such as aquaponics and sandponics. These technologies reduce water consumption by up to 80% and operate using solar energy. The farm supports the cultivation of various crops, including strawberries, lettuce, eggplants, peppers, fruit trees, and animal fodder plants, through advanced irrigation methods utilizing fish waste, which transforms ammonia into nitrate to nourish plants.

The project also includes the opening of two multipurpose halls for meetings, workshops, and conferences, as well as a computer lab accessible to the local community. The initiative was made possible through collaboration between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Bahr Al-Uloom Forum, and Suq Al-Shuyukh Youth Forum.

According to Amar Al-Hayani, the farm manager, this is the first initiative of its kind in Dhi Qar, employing aquaponic and sandponic systems. “These systems significantly reduce water usage and streamline agricultural processes. The farm operates sustainably on solar power, allowing the cultivation of fruit trees, leafy vegetables, and animal fodder plants,” he said.

The farm utilizes three advanced systems, Pipe-based planting for crops like strawberries, lettuce, and leafy greens, Deep-water culture for vegetables such as eggplants and peppers and sandponic system designed for fruit trees and large-rooted plants.

“We are training over 100 farmers, inviting them to the farm to learn modern techniques that cut water usage by 80%,” Al-Hayani added.

Majid Al-Aqili, director of Suq Al-Shuyukh Forum, described the smart farm as a collaborative project. “This model smart farm was created through a partnership between UNDP, Bahr Al-Uloom Forum, and Suq Al-Shuyukh Forum. It serves as an agricultural lab combining three farming techniques: deep-water culture, synthetic soil planting, and hydroponics with fish tanks. Fish waste is used to produce nitrates, which benefit the plants,” he said.

The farm currently cultivates crops such as chili peppers, tomatoes, and lettuce. Al-Aqili emphasized that the facility will serve as a training ground for farmers, showcasing water-efficient and soil-free farming methods.

Muslim Al-Hamdani, a member of the forum, highlighted the broader mission of the facility. “The forum aims to foster youth talent and energy by providing a library and a supportive environment for their endeavors. It also offers a space for conferences, workshops, and meetings—an unprecedented resource in Dhi Qar and Suq Al-Shuyukh.”