International food security expert Dr. Fadel Elzubi explained that these two initiatives fall within a comprehensive vision aimed at enhancing production efficiency and strengthening national food security, with a focus on introducing modern technologies that support farmers and keep pace with global transformations in the agricultural sector.
Elzubi noted that the Artificial Insemination Center represents a strategic step to improve livestock breeds and increase the productivity of meat and dairy, positively impacting farmers’ incomes and enhancing the competitiveness of Jordanian products. Meanwhile, the Center for Propagation of Agricultural Biological Control Agents provides a modern tool for combating pests through environmentally friendly biological methods, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and preserving soil health and natural resources.
He emphasized that the purpose of establishing these centers is to strike a balance between economic development and environmental preservation, while supporting small farmers by providing affordable modern technologies and integrating youth and women into agricultural entrepreneurship projects.
Elzubi further explained that for the centers to achieve their intended goals, clear monitoring and evaluation systems are needed to measure the actual impact on production and income, and to ensure that services reach small farmers rather than being limited to large-scale projects. Specialized training programs must also be provided to build the capacities of local staff, alongside strengthening legislation and oversight to guarantee the safe and effective use of new technologies.
He highlighted the importance of preserving Jordan’s national genetic map of livestock breeds and utilizing it in artificial insemination programs, which would increase twinning rates, improve meat production, and reinforce the national identity of Jordan’s animal resources.
Elzubi added that artificial insemination of small ruminants is a fundamental step in improving breeds and increasing productivity. It relies on collecting semen from genetically selected males and inseminating females in an organized manner to enhance productive traits such as milk and meat yield. One of the main advantages of this technique is its relatively low cost, ease of application, and the ability to widely utilize males with superior genetic traits. However, its limitation lies in the gradual and relatively slow pace of genetic improvement, with twinning rates remaining low compared to more advanced techniques.
He continued: “Embryo transfer technology is a more advanced step than artificial insemination. It involves selecting females with high productive traits, stimulating them to produce a large number of eggs, fertilizing them, and then implanting the embryos into other females. This method maximizes the use of genetically superior females, increases the chances of twinning, and accelerates meat and dairy production. Its advantages include achieving a qualitative leap in breed improvement within a short period and doubling the economic value of herds. However, its drawbacks include high costs, the need for advanced expertise and precise laboratory equipment, as well as challenges in infrastructure and qualified personnel.”
Elzubi clarified that artificial insemination represents a practical and transitional option for Jordan at present, especially given limited financial resources and infrastructure, while embryo transfer could serve as a long-term strategic option if investments are made in building national capacities and developing laboratories.
He stressed that the most important factor is to leverage Jordan’s national genetic map of livestock breeds in both methods, thereby improving productive traits, increasing twinning rates, and enhancing meat production in ways that strengthen food security and Jordan’s position in agricultural innovation.
Elzubi concluded by predicting that the two centers will contribute to increasing agricultural and livestock productivity, reducing the import bill for meat, dairy, and agricultural products, and creating new job opportunities in rural Jordan, particularly for youth and women. They will also enhance Jordan’s regional standing as a hub for agricultural and environmental innovation.