Muscat – As Oman continues to promote sustainable agriculture and food security, beekeeping is emerging as an important activity that supports biodiversity and strengthens crop production through natural pollination. The sector is also attracting a growing number of women and young people in rural communities, offering stable income and room for expansion.

In Wadi Khous, in the wilayat of Dhank, one woman’s determination has turned a modest start into a promising rural enterprise. Jamila bint Saeed al Alawiya began her journey by helping one of her brothers with his beekeeping work. What started as simple assistance soon became a personal interest.

“This work opened a door for me that I had never known before. I found my passion here and decided to begin my own project,” she said.

With support from an organisation that empowers rural women, Jamila purchased three hives in 2022. Today, she manages more than 15 hives and produces several varieties of Omani honey, including Sidr and Samar – both known for their high quality.

The natural environment of Wadi Khous, with its rich grazing areas and constant water flow, has helped her bees thrive. But the work has also brought challenges. Varroa mite infestation remains a major concern for beekeepers, and Jamila faced difficulty finding a suitable location near her home for her apiaries. She says consistent monitoring and proper treatment helped her overcome these obstacles.

Jamila started selling honey within her community before expanding her reach through social media. She now hopes to establish a small bee farm and participate in local exhibitions to enhance production and widen her customer base.

“Choosing the right bee breed, working hard and honestly, and ensuring water supply – these are the keys to success for any apiary,” she said.

Jamila believes her project reflects the growing contribution of rural women to agricultural development. “My story is not just a personal success. It shows how rural women can support agricultural production and strengthen Oman’s honey industry,” she added.