Day: April 6, 2024

Mogadishu, The Somali National Army foiled an Al-Shabaab terrorist attack involving an explosive-laden vehicle in Bal'ad, in the Middle Shabelle region preventing their entry into the town.

The District Commissioner of Bal'ad, Khasim Ali Nur (Furdug) told Somali National News Agency (SONNA) that the army had killed 11 militants who were among the terrorists trying to enter into Bal'ad town.

There were no civilian casualties, and only minor injuries were reported among three soldiers.

The Commissioner said that there are few civilian properties damaged by the militants.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

Manama, In implementation of the order of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to inaugurate, restore and rehabilitate 32 mosques under the Sunni and Jaafari Endowments in all governorates of Bahrain, Shaikh Dr Rashid bin Mohammed bin Fetais Al Hajri, the Chairman of the Sunni Endowments Board, announced the completion of maintenance on Al Maawda Mosque in Muharraq, Omar bin Khattab Mosque in Arad, and Isa Town South Mosque.

The chairman lauded the advanced pace of Bahrain construction and reconstruction projects for places of worship, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the follow-up of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

Riyadh, The Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Programme (Reef Saudi) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Kingdom's coffee sector. Since its inception in 2020, the programme has allocated a total of SAR61 million in support, reaching 3,718 beneficiaries.

Reef Saudi reported a significant increase in coffee production. From 2020 to 2023, production volume has grown by 37%, reaching 1,485 tons, compared to 800 tons in 2020, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) said.

The programme's ambitious goal is to achieve 7,000 tons of coffee production annually by 2026.

The programme emphasises the growing importance of the coffee industry within the Kingdom's economy. Reef Saudi aims to integrate coffee production into the overall agricultural landscape, transforming it into a cash crop that diversifies the agricultural base. It also seeks to create additional economic value through manufacturing, marketing, and increased self-sufficiency in coffee production, ultimately reducing reliance on imports.

Reef Saudi recognises the potential for job creation within the coffee sector, particularly for young Saudis. The programme strives to increase producer income and improve overall livelihoods in rural areas.

To achieve its goals, Reef Saudi has established a multi-pronged strategy. This strategy includes facilitating access to financial resources, implementing best agricultural practices through nurseries and model farms, and introducing automated harvesting techniques to minimise waste. Cooperative societies and coffee marketing centers are also being established to enhance the sustainability of Saudi coffee cultivation.

Additionally, the programme supports rainwater harvesting projects and irrigation infrastructure development. Direct financial support for small producers is offered alongside capacity-building initiatives for technical personnel within relevant institutions.

Reef Saudi is actively pursuing a range of strategic projects and initiatives. These projects encompass establishing and equipping coffee processing and manufacturing facilities in Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan. Additionally, the programme plans to equip model farms in strategic locations within the Jazan region and establish model coffee nurseries in Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha.

The Reef Saudi programme operates within a broader context of empowering small agricultural producers. The programme aims to improve access to resources, markets, and essential agricultural services. Ultimately, it seeks to contribute to food security, rural social stability, environmental sustainability, and the responsible management of natural resources.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

Kuwait, His Highness the Prime Minister of Kuwait, Dr. Shaikh Mohammad Sabah Al Salem Al Sabah, today submitted the government's resignation to His Highness the Amir Shaikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah according to Article 57 of the constitution.

The move followed today's Cabinet extraordinary meeting held at Bayan Palace and presided over by Dr. Shaikh Mohammad Sabah Al Salem Al Sabah, Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) reported.

The cabinet was briefed by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Acting Minister of Interior, Shaikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al Sabah, on the electoral process and the announcement of the election's final results.

On the other hand, the cabinet approved a bill calling upon the National Assembly to hold the first regular session of the 18th legislative term on April 17 (Wednesday).

According to Article 57 of Kuwait's Constitution, the cabinet shall submit its resignation to HH the Amir following the elections.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

Manama, The comprehensive maintenance work at the Al-Wasti Mosque in Saar, Al-Shaikh Safwan Mosque in Jid Ali, Imam Al-Kadhem Mosque in Al-Guraifa, and Shaikh Hussain Mosque in Maameer has been completed, the Jaffari Endowments Directorate has announced.

The four mosques were renovated following the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to open, restore, and develop 32 mosques under the Sunni and Jaffari Endowments, located across the Kingdom's governorates, as part of a development plan for mosques.

On the occasion, Yousif bin Saleh Al Saleh, Jafari Endowments Council Chairman, extended deepest thanks and appreciation to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for the constant care enjoyed by the houses of worship during HM the King's prosperous era.

He also commended the efforts exerted by those in charge of following up on the implementation of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister's directives, in coordination with the Jaafari Endowments Council, to complete the maintenance work of the mosques.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

Jeddah, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, today arrived in Jeddah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

During the visit, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa will meet with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

The visit reaffirms the depth of the historical partnership between the two Kingdoms and the mutual commitment to further bilateral relations.

Upon arrival at King Abdulaziz International Airport, His Royal Highness was received by the Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and the Kingdom of Bahrain's Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, HE Shaikh Ali bin Abdulrahman bin Ali Al Khalifa.

HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister was accompanied by the Minister of Finance and National Economy, HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, and a number of senior officials.

Source: Bahrain News Agency