A record 200,000 visitors flocked to Bahrain's second animal production show, which concluded at the Endurance Village in Sakhir yesterday (March 27)

The six-day event, organised by the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry, focused on the importance of animal production and health and included 150 exhibitors from 32 countries.

It also featured an animal exhibition with breeds of farm animals, horses, dogs and cats, a bird show, Fish World, live shows, an outdoor theatre, children's stations, a farmer's market and educational zone.

"We've had more exhibitors - both international and local - more visitors and more areas," said Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister and head of the steering committee responsible for the Mara'ee event Dr Juma Al Ka'abi.

"Every aspect of the festival has exceeded expectations.

"It has been a huge undertaking and we our proud of the support we've had, with so many people travelling out to visit and take part in all the different activities we've had going on."

Dr Al Ka'abi said a major part of Mara'ee was trade and increasing Bahrain's animal production industries.

"Our ministry is helping in the adoption of industry best practices, techniques and capability building, in line with the national strategy for sustainable agricultural development and capacity," he said.

"As you see, Mara'ee is focussing on the importance of animal production and health and the ongoing enhancement of the benefits for individuals, investors and businesses. Technology and science also featured highly in the event showcasing the major role they play in the emerging trends, with emphasis on livestock, poultry and aquaculture."

Visitors were treated to performances by the famous Andalusian dancing stallions, some of the world's top horsemen, as well as local steeds from the Bahrain Royal Stud.

"For families, Mara'ee has been one of the most popular exhibitions we've ever had in Bahrain," said Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Under-Secretary and Mara'ee organising committee head Dr Nabeel Abu Al Fateh.

"The response from parents has been amazing, they have really taken advantage of all the different areas and activates, learning with their children and enjoying their time together."

School children were presented with trophies and certificates for their participation in three competitions - Know Your Animal, Reading and Photography, which were held over three days.

Sixteen public schools took part in the Know Your Animal competition, with Ahmed Al Omran Secondary Boys School coming first and Al Noor Secondary School for Girls second.

The Reading competition featured two categories - one for six to 10-year-olds and another 11 to 15-year-olds and three students from each were declared winners. Nine students were also awarded prizes for their entries into a photography competition. – TradeArabia News Service