Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat), the Kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund, recently announced a strategic transfer of the Bahrain Agriculture Development Company (Gheras) to its subsidiary, Bahrain Food Holding Company (BFHC), at the Gateway Gulf Forum. This move is aimed at strengthening Bahrain’s national food security and fostering innovation in the agri-food sector. The agreement, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and National Economy, is intended to enhance local agricultural production through modern and sustainable farming techniques.
Gheras, established by Royal Decree in 2021, has been at the forefront of revitalizing Bahrain’s agricultural sector by introducing groundbreaking initiatives like the Hoorat Aali hydroponics project. This initiative has played a significant role in meeting the growing demand for fresh produce in the local market. The integration of Gheras into BFHC will allow the latter to further expand its portfolio of food-related investments and consolidate its position as a key player in the industry.
BFHC, which was formed earlier this year to serve as a central hub for Mumtalakat’s food-related investments, currently manages strategic assets such as Bahrain Flour Mills, General Poultry Company, and Delmon Poultry Company. By adding Gheras to its portfolio, BFHC is poised to enhance its capabilities and contribute to the sustainable development of Bahrain’s agricultural sector. This consolidation of resources and expertise will enable BFHC to drive innovation and efficiency in the production and distribution of food products.
The strategic transfer of Gheras to BFHC is a significant milestone in Bahrain’s efforts to enhance its food security and promote self-sufficiency in agriculture. By leveraging advanced technologies and sustainable farming practices, the combined entity will be well-positioned to address the challenges facing the agri-food sector and support the Kingdom’s economic diversification goals. The partnership between Mumtalakat, Gheras, and BFHC underscores the commitment of Bahrain’s government and private sector to drive sustainable growth and innovation in the agriculture industry.
With its focus on modernizing Bahrain’s agricultural landscape and promoting local food production, Gheras has demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing the country’s food security. By joining forces with BFHC, Gheras will be able to leverage the latter’s expertise and resources to further expand its impact and accelerate its growth trajectory. This strategic collaboration highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in driving innovation and sustainable development in the agri-food sector.
Overall, the integration of Gheras into BFHC represents a significant step towards strengthening Bahrain’s agricultural sector and advancing the Kingdom’s food security goals. By consolidating their efforts and resources, Mumtalakat, Gheras, and BFHC are well-equipped to drive innovation, promote sustainability, and enhance the competitiveness of Bahrain’s food industry. This partnership sets a positive example for other countries seeking to enhance their agricultural capabilities and ensure food security for their populations.