The Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning along with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources signed on Monday a total of 28 agreements for the implementation of a number of agricultural and fish projects with an investment of RO 33 million. A total of 8 million sq metres of land, distributed across various governorates of the country, have been allocated for the projects.
In a statement to Oman News Agency (ONA), Dr Saud bin Hamoud al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, said the project will enable local and international investors to support Oman’s food security objectives, as well as boost self-sufficiency in some areas of food production, and create job opportunities for local Omanis.
Additionally, the agreements will contribute to the production of at least 10 per cent of Oman’s total annual wheat requirement of 320,000 – 350,000 tonnes, he noted Also taking part in the agreement signing was Dr Khalfan bin Said al Shueili, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning.
The biggest of these agreements is linked to the implementation of a major finfish aquaculture project off the Wilayat of Seeb at a cost of RO 29.650 million. Another project is for the breeding of rabbits.
In Al Buraimi Governorate, agreements have been signed for the allocation of land plots for the cultivation of wheat, vegetables, lemons and fodder grass.
In Al Dhahirah Governorate, several land sites have been earmarked for the cultivation of wheat, and fruits and vegetables. In Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, the focus is on poultry farming, as well as the cultivation of fruits and vegetables.
South Al Batinah Governorate, with its fertile farms, will host several new sites for the growth of vegetables and fruits, cultivation of mangoes, and investments in poultry farms.
