Under the patronage of the President of Malta, Her Excellency Myriam Spiteri Debono, and in the presence of the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo, the annual Imnarja exhibition was opened. The opening of the exhibition, which focuses on the Maltese goat, took place at Verdala Castle. During this event, a number of workers in the sector were recognised.
This annual event celebrates Malta’s agricultural heritage and recognises the work and dedication of farmers, producers and those who have started working in the sector. During the evening, various awards were presented to individuals and families who have demonstrated excellence and innovation in their respective agricultural fields.
In her speech, President Myriam Spiteri Debono highlighted the unique value of Maltese produce, the fruit of the hard work, dedication and love of farmers and ranchers. While appealing for Maltese farmers and ranchers to continue to be supported, to continue producing sustainably and competing in the market, the President recalled that local produce contributes to consuming healthier and better quality food, while preserving agricultural traditions, which form our cultural identity.
Minister Anton Refalo reiterated that these awards aim to encourage continued investment, innovation and sustainable practices in the agricultural and livestock sectors in Malta. The event also highlighted the Ministry’s continued commitment to supporting local farmers and ensuring the future of traditional Maltese agriculture.
“This exhibition is not simply an exhibition – it is a tribute to those farmers who have passed on knowledge with great dedication for generations. It is also an educational opportunity, especially for young people, to learn about the importance of sustainable farming and indigenous livestock. We are committed to continuing to offer support to those who raise the Maltese goat, through schemes, research and collaboration with relevant institutions. Our goal is to see this breed grow again and be appreciated for what it truly is, a gem of our country,” concluded Minister Refalo.
The prizes awarded were as follows:
- Fruit and Vegetable Productivity Award – Edward Bezzina, whose dedication, innovation and commitment led to a remarkable increase in the production and efficiency of his agricultural operations.
- New Fruit and Vegetable Farmer Award – Clive Sant, who despite being new to the industry, quickly demonstrated impressive skills, enthusiasm and thus demonstrated great potential and dedication in the fruit and vegetable farming sector.
- Large Animal Productivity Award – Frankie and Sean Cauchi. They increased the number of shearing machines from 28 in 2023 to 59 in 2024, achieving an increase of 111%.
- Small Farm Animal Productivity Award – Raymond Schembri, as a category had an increase in the amount of rabbits raised and also began using the new slaughterhouse facility.
- Milk and/or Egg Productivity Award – Angelo Bilocca, was nominated for the excellent quality of the milk produced by the sheep and also for the efficiency of production.
- New Farmer in Meat Production – Leli Spiteri, Angelico Spiteri and Christian Farrugia. The farm in question had ceased production for a number of years. In 2024, however, together with the younger generations of his family, he resumed production by engaging in meat cattle breeding and the production of small grazing animals. Thus they achieved an increase in production of 17.5 LU (15 cows and 2.5 small grazing animals).
- The Best Sustainable Farm – Isaac Sciberras, a young farmer who is taking over the management of the farm from his father. This is a certified organic farm where a number of fruits and vegetables are grown and animals such as sheep are raised. Isaac is also making use of European funds to continue investing in his farm to make it more sustainable.
Also recognised on this evening was Joseph Muscat, known as Ġużu tal-Beżuża, one of the last custodians of the Maltese goat and who left an intangible legacy that he cherished throughout his life.
Photo: MAFA
