The CEO of Ektifa, Dr. Khalifa bin Musabih Al Tunaiji, announced that Mleiha Dairy will initially produce 3.5 tons of milk per day, with plans to scale up to 33 tons daily by December. The dairy farm's herd will be expanded to 2,500 cows with a new batch arriving from Denmark in October. This expansion follows directives from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, emphasizing the importance of local organic dairy production.
Mleiha Dairy has obtained organic production certification and all necessary licenses, ensuring adherence to stringent nutritional and health standards. This certification process involved collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology. Additionally, the dairy's initial production will be supported by a partnership with Watania in Al Ain until the Mleiha facilities are fully operational by April 2025.
The farm's infrastructure includes advanced technologies to monitor cow health and productivity. Each cow is equipped with a smart collar that tracks movement and health metrics. The farm also uses automated feeding systems and rubber flooring to enhance cow comfort and safety. Environmental sustainability is a key focus, with measures in place for recycling and biosecurity.
Mleiha Dairy's products will be packaged in containers designed to preserve freshness by preventing light and oxygen exposure. This approach ensures that the milk retains its nutritional quality from farm to table. The initiative also includes plans to introduce a variety of dairy products once the full-scale production facilities are completed.
Sheikh Sultan highlighted the comprehensive care provided to the cattle, covering health, nutrition, and environmental factors to produce high-quality organic milk. The project's long-term vision includes establishing a nucleus herd of 5,000 cows carrying A2A2 protein genes, known for their health benefits.
The launch of Mleiha Dairy is part of a broader strategy to enhance food security and sustainability in Sharjah. This includes interconnected agricultural projects that utilize by-products to enrich the soil and feed other farm animals, promoting a circular economy within the agricultural sector.
By the end of July, consumers in Sharjah will have access to fresh, organic milk from Mleiha Dairy, marking a significant step towards self-sufficiency in local dairy production and reinforcing the region's commitment to sustainable agriculture.