Basra exhibition highlights local dairy, dates and crafts

BASRA — The Basra Agriculture Directorate hosted an exhibition showcasing dairy products, dates and handmade crafts on Thursday, featuring the participation of 60 rural women from across the governorate. The event aimed to highlight local products and bolster small-scale farming projects vital to many rural families.

Sajida Al-Khuzaie, head of women’s affairs at the Basra Agriculture Directorate, told 964media, “This is the second year we have held the agricultural exhibition.” She added, “The exhibition featured a variety of products that Basra is known for, including dairy, date-based products, and agricultural goods. Many women participated, especially those involved in dairy production in northern Basra, Shatt Al-Arab, and Al-Madina District. These projects have received support from the Food and Agriculture Organization, and we also focused on showcasing traditional handicrafts.”

Maryam Jawad Kazem, a participant, said, “The FAO supported my dairy production project, and today I am displaying my products at the exhibition. There is concern that foot-and-mouth disease might impact dairy sales, but we assure consumers that our products are safe.” She listed the dairy items she produces, noting, “We make braided cheese, crystal cheese, Akkawi cheese, fermented dairy. We were trained in making these products and have instructional booklets to help us continue learning.”

Najlaa Hafidh, head of rural women’s affairs at the Shatt Al-Arab Agriculture Department, told 964media, “For rural women, the main craft is weaving palm frond products, such as handmade brooms, traditional fans, woven table mats, and baskets. These crafts are deeply rooted in rural traditions.” However, Hafidh pointed out that these women face financial challenges, stating, “They work hard to produce these items, but there is no support for their projects. Their prices are low, so they don’t generate enough income.”