Muscat – A standardised emergency food basket has been approved for distribution in emergency shelters during natural disasters and crises as part of efforts to enhance national preparedness and humanitarian response mechanisms.

The approval came at the first meeting convened in 2025 by Relief and Shelter Sector of National Committee for Emergency Management (NCEM) chaired by H E Sheikh Rashid bin Ahmed al Shamsi, Undersecretary in Ministry of Social Development and head of the sector.

The emergency food basket is designed to meet basic nutritional needs of displaced individuals and families. Its contents were finalised after reviewing existing provisions and assessing caloric value, dietary requirements and storage availability to ensure efficiency during relief operations.

The meeting also addressed an assessment process for shelters across the sultanate, aimed at ensuring readiness and adherence to national standards. A framework for regular inspections and performance indicators was discussed to improve infrastructure and service quality at these facilities.

“Ensuring the safety, dignity and well-being of citizens during emergencies is our top priority,” H E Shamsi said, stressing the importance of coordination between government entities, civil society organisations and volunteers.

The Relief and Shelter Sector plays a key role in Oman’s emergency management system, overseeing logistics and relief services during extreme weather events and other national emergencies.