Muscat – In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming the agricultural sector, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) signed an agreement with Ankaa Space and Technologies to establish a cutting-edge centre to manufacture drones and robots last week.

Speaking exclusively to Muscat Daily, Mohammed Salim al Riyami, Co-founder of Ankaa Space and Technologies, said, “This project is the first of its kind in the Gulf countries, aimed at stimulating the agricultural sector. The pact aims to establish a research centre to make robotics and drones for use in agriculture and fisheries.”

Construction of the centre will commence in July on a 2,500sqm area within the Agricultural Research Centre in Rumais, Barka. “The project is estimated to cost RO250,000, and we anticipate completion within one year.”

Elaborating on diverse functions of drones, including photography, reconnaissance, aerial surveys and spraying in agriculture, Riyami said, “This versatility has garnered significant attention from various industries, particularly agriculture.”

In the realm of fish farming, drones and robots can play vital roles in monitoring lakes, swamps and coastal areas. “These are instrumental in detecting pollution or changes in water quality, and analysing data essential for making informed decisions aimed at safeguarding aquatic ecosystems and boosting productivity,” Riyami informed.

The centre will also play an important role in boosting the agricultural sector through application of artificial intelligence for crop management, utilising drones to spray pesticide, and conducting groundwater exploration. “This initiative aims to bolster support for farmers and the agricultural research sector. Robots will be employed to access challenging terrains beyond the reach of drones.”

Addressing the challenges to the project, Riyami highlighted several key hurdles. “The biggest challenge was securing the financial backing needed to establish the centre and sourcing spare parts for the manufacture of drones and robots. Finding young Omani engineers with expertise in technology and AI posed another significant challenge.”

These challenges were addressed by forging a partnership with MAFWR. “Our strategy includes manufacturing 80% of the drones and robots using Omani raw materials, while importing the remaining components from abroad.”

To cultivate local talent, Ankaa  conducted extensive training courses and workshops on AI, benefiting numerous young Omani engineers and technicians. “As a result, we successfully identified and recruited 25 talented young Omani men who are now integral members of our team. They will form the core of our workforce when the centre launches next year. We are committed to employing 50 Omani youth annually in the technology sector.”

Riyami hopes to expand the centre’s benefit to other sectors such as oil and gas, geo surveying, remote sensing and space exploration.