Muscat – The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water
Resources in collaboration with Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), celebrated Agriculture Day
on October 31. This annual event aims to raise community awareness about the agricultural
sector’s vital role in supporting the national economy and diversifying income sources,
ultimately enhancing non-oil GDP.
The ceremony was sponsored by H.H. Sayyid Dr. Fahad bin al Julanda al Said, Vice-
Chancellor of SQU, and attended by His Excellency Dr. Saud bin Hamoud Al Habsi, Minister
of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources.
The event featured three comprehensive working papers. The first paper presented the
outputs of the Food Security Laboratory, while the second focused on the services and
programs provided to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by the Small and Medium
Enterprises Authority, highlighting its role in supporting entrepreneurs. The third paper
discussed financing opportunities for food security projects.
Dr. Hamdan Salim Al Wahaibi, Director-General of Agricultural and Livestock Research at the
Ministry, emphasized SQU’s significant contributions to research, development, and
innovation, which are crucial for advancing the food security system. He noted that the
agricultural sector is undergoing continuous development aimed at boosting local food
production and improving self-sufficiency, thus enhancing food security while ensuring food
safety and preserving natural resources.
The Minister highlighted various programs implemented in partnership with private sector
institutions and the Omani Agricultural Association, which have led to increased agricultural
production. The total agricultural GDP reached RO 525 mn in 2023, up from RO 432 mn in 2021.
Since 2021, the Ministry has established four food security laboratories to identify
investment opportunities and bolster capabilities in the food security sector. Notably, the
2024 food security laboratory identified 66 investment opportunities and 24 enabling
initiatives.
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