Minister of Agriculture Sponsors Opening of 2026 Olive Festival in Mzaraat Al Chouf to Support Local Production

The "2026 Olive Festival" was held in the town of Mzaraat Al Chouf, under the patronage and attendance of Minister of Agriculture Dr. Nizar Hani, along with Hassam Harb representing the head of the "Democratic Gathering," MP Timor Jumblatt, MP Dr. Bilal Abdullah, Karim Hamadeh representing MP Marwan Hamadeh, and Grace Aoun representing MP Georges Adwan. The event was attended by heads of municipal unions, municipalities, mukhtars, social, economic, educational, scouting, and artistic figures, representatives of civil society associations, and a crowd of locals and nature enthusiasts. It was an occasion that combined celebrating the agricultural season, highlighting local heritage, and supporting farmers and producers.

Hani began his participation by picking olives in one of the town's orchards, then joined in planting an olive tree alongside the Mayor of Mzaraat Al Chouf, Nasr El Baaini, council members, representatives of the "Al Taadud Sports Club," MPs, and their representatives. This symbolic initiative embodied attachment to the land and commitment to the sustainability of olive cultivation and the preservation of this agricultural heritage.

The festival activities opened with speeches by Mayor Nasr El Baaini, Hazem El Baaini, head of the "Al Taadud Sports Club," and Hasib Thabian, head of the "Al Taadud Social Association." They welcomed the attendees, thanked the Minister of Agriculture for his patronage and participation, and affirmed "the importance of the festival in highlighting the status of olives in the region, supporting farmers, encouraging local production, and revitalizing agricultural and rural tourism."

Hani

In turn, Minister Hani emphasized in his speech "the agricultural, economic, and nutritional significance of the olive tree and its oil, as they are integral parts of Lebanese agricultural identity and heritage," affirming "the importance of caring for this sector and enhancing its presence in the rural economy."

He noted that the Chouf region "contains approximately one million olive trees, reflecting the magnitude of this wealth and its role in supporting farmers and producing families," and pointed out that "per capita consumption in Lebanon is about five liters of olive oil annually," calling for "encouraging the consumption of Lebanese oil and supporting its local production."

Hani addressed the health and nutritional benefits of olive oil, urging a "correction of common misconceptions regarding its relationship with cholesterol," while noting "the importance of consuming it in moderation within a balanced diet."

In appreciation of participation and support, organizers presented commemorative shields to Minister Hani and the representative of MP Timor Jumblatt. The stage also witnessed the planting of an olive tree in a planter, preparing for its care and subsequent transfer to a public place, to remain a witness to the occasion and its message of attachment to the land.

The festival featured artistic segments and folklore performances from Lebanese heritage, reflecting the richness of the region's cultural and popular legacy and adding a festive atmosphere to the gathering.

At the conclusion of the festival, Hani toured the exhibitors' and producers' booths, reviewing agricultural, food, and handicraft products. He praised the efforts of participants and organizers, affirming "the importance of these initiatives in supporting farmers, encouraging local production, and expanding marketing opportunities for Lebanese products."

The festival combined celebrating the land and its produce with introducing the region's heritage, confirming the role of local initiatives in revitalizing the rural economy and preserving olives as a national wealth, source of livelihood, and legacy passed down through generations.