Muscat – Environment Authority (EA) has announced an initiative called ‘Pasture Resting’ aimed at addressing desertification and overgrazing in Dhofar. The project seeks to restore natural vegetation, support biodiversity and promote sustainable land management in the governorate.

The project is expected to directly improve livelihoods of 455,000 people in Dhofar and indirectly benefit 5.1mn people across Oman. It also aims to generate approximately 1,500 green jobs and enhance living conditions of around 1,100 livestock breeders in targeted areas. Plans are in place to restore 10,000 hectares of degraded land, establish an economic zone and introduce a sustainable grazing system.

The project was unveiled during Oman’s participation in COP16 – Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification – underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia till December 13. It reflects Oman’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices and green economic development.

Dr Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of EA and head of Oman’s delegation at the conference, outlined the project’s key objectives. Set within the timeframe of 2025 to 2030, it aims to preserve vegetation in the western parts of Dhofar, particularly Dalkout and Rakhyut, through the application of nature-based solutions.

“The project aims to develop sustainable partnerships to protect Dhofar’s natural vegetation and reduce the impact of overgrazing,” Amri said. It is being implemented in collaboration with Global Green Growth Institute, the Secretariat of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, and several local and international partners.

One of the key objectives of the Pasture Resting project is to support livestock breeders by creating economic opportunities for them and facilitate marketing of milk, meat, fertilisers and agricultural produce. Beneficiaries will also be introduced to modern water-saving and soil-preservation techniques. Strategic support for the project will come from partners such as the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources,   Dhofar Governor’s Office, Oman Investment Authority, Dhofar University and international funding agencies.

Private sector firms, particularly those under Oman Food Investment Holding Company (Nitaj), will play a significant role in implementing the project which is aligned with EA’s 2020–2030 strategy and Oman Vision 2040. It is also part of the country’s efforts to restore ecosystems, support green economic growth and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.