First ‘Al Sameh Harvest Season’ commences in Southern Badia's Al Jafr

AMMAN — HRH Princess Basma Bint Ali, chairperson of the board of trustees of the Hashemite Fund for the Development of the Jordan Badia, on Tuesday attended the opening of the first "Al Sameh Harvest Season" in the Southern Badia's Al Jafr District in Al Mudawarrah region. 

During the event, the princess announced the commencement of the "Brakah Season" and expressed her excitement for the upcoming second Al Sameh Festival, anticipating even greater achievements, according to the Jordan news Agency, Petra. 

Princess Basma emphasised the Hashemite Fund's collaboration with universities, research centres, and the Royal Botanic Garden ensuring care for the Al Sameh plant. 

Princess Basma also stressed assessing the production of high-value food products and traditional dishes based on Al Sameh. Such endeavours aim to transform this plant into a source of income for numerous families in Al Mudawarrah region.

The Al Sameh plant naturally thrives in the southern desert, particularly in the eastern part of Al Jafr District, and it is deeply rooted in the region's social heritage. Local communities actively participate in its harvesting seasons, collecting its seeds, drying, grinding, and utilising them to make bread and sweets.