JEDDAH: The Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Program, known as Saudi Reef, highlighted the importance of supporting small livestock farmers across Saudi Arabia to boost productivity and investment.

The program reviewed last year’s efforts in digital management of intensive livestock farms, including the first implementation of the Saudi Smart Flock system, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Majed Al-Buraikan, Reef Saudi spokesperson, said the Saudi Smart Flock is a digital system that uses smart technology, including facial recognition, to manage both traditional and intensive livestock farms. It is the first of its kind to be applied to small ruminants and has been tested on six small farms.

Al-Buraikan said that the system, which identifies animals by their facial features, also monitors productivity, provides health updates, and manages animal records through its platform. It reduces losses, improves quality, and supports decision-making with accurate data.

The small livestock sector is a key focus of Saudi Reef, aiming to increase productivity, raise farmers’ income, improve livelihoods, and develop traditional production systems while supporting food security.