Barka – Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources is making strides to strengthen the apiculture sector in South Batinah with two key projects underway. A bee museum in Barka has reached over 60% completion, while the Sahtan Trade Line project in Rustaq, aimed at increasing the number of honey bees, has surpassed 30% completion.

The Directorate of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in South Batinah is making efforts as part of a broader push to support honey production, which saw beekeepers in the governorate produce 6.4 tonnes of honey in 2024. This included 4 tonnes of Sidr honey and 2.4 tonnes of Samr honey, valued at over RO96,000.

Abdullah bin Saif al Saidi, Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources  in South Batinah, emphasised the ministry’s commitment to ensuring sustainability of the apiculture sector. “Honey production is an economically viable profession, and the ministry is encouraging beekeepers to adopt modern technologies and commercial apiaries to maximise returns.”

The directorate is conducting training and workshops for beekeepers, focusing on modern hive-raising techniques and improving production methods. Special exhibitions are also being organised in collaboration with public and private entities to support marketing efforts and raise awareness about the sector.

Saidi highlighted the need to diversify honey production and introduce advanced technologies for breeding improved queen bees. These efforts aim to enhance productivity and produce higher-quality honey, contributing to food security and economic growth in Oman.

Apiculture has garnered significant interest in South Batinah with over 1,000 registered beekeepers by the end of 2024. This growing involvement reflects the governorate’s potential as a hub for honey production, backed by initiatives like the bee museum and Sahtan Trade Line projects.