Salalah – Oman is moving towards establishing its National Laboratory for Parthenium Control, with experts, researchers and representatives of relevant authorities meeting to develop a roadmap for the proposed facility.

A preparatory workshop, which began on Monday, is focusing on strengthening national efforts to monitor and control the invasive Parthenium weed and identifying the scientific and technical requirements for a coordinated response.

Dr Thuraya bint Said Al Sariri, Adviser to the Chairman of the Environment Authority for Nature Conservation and patron of the workshop, said invasive plant species have become a wider challenge affecting biodiversity, natural resources, food security, public health and economic activities.

She said Parthenium poses a particular challenge because of its high capacity to spread and its potential impact on vegetation and ecosystems.

“Addressing it requires an integrated national approach that moves from localised interventions to sustainable management, and from responding after the problem emerges to early detection, prevention and proactive action,” she said.

Thuraya stressed the importance of bringing together government entities, academic and research institutions, the private sector and local communities under a framework of shared responsibility.

The workshop is examining the current situation, national priorities, monitoring and control efforts, challenges, research and technical needs, as well as international and regional best practices.

It will also identify potential experts and research centres and explore opportunities for collaboration, with the aim of developing a clear roadmap for the proposed National Laboratory for Parthenium Control.

The third day of the workshop will include field visits to control and trial sites in Dhofar, allowing participants to review field measures and strengthen links between scientific research and practical control efforts.