Latest news with #AlMandhari
Times of Oman
06-05-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Oman, EU discuss means to enhance cooperation
Brussels: The third high-level officials' meeting between the Sultanate of Oman and the European Union was held in Brussels today to explore avenues for strengthening cooperation across various fields of mutual interest, including trade, investment, fisheries exports, education, training, renewable green energy, as well as environmental and tourism collaboration. The Omani delegation was chaired by Ambassador Munthir Mahfoudh Al Mandhari, Head of the Europe Department at the Foreign Ministry, while the European side was represented by Anna-Maria Panagiotakopoulou, Head of the Arabian Peninsula, Iraq, and Regional Policies Division at the European External Action Service. The meeting was attended by Ru'aa Issa Al Zadjali, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to the Kingdom of Belgium and Head of Mission to the European Union, alongside representatives from several Omani government bodies and officials from the European External Action Service and the European Commission. On the sidelines of the meeting, Ambassador Al Mandhari met with Michael Karnitschnig, Deputy Director-General and Head of the Gulf Office at the European Commission's Directorate-General for the Middle East and Gulf. Discussions during the meeting focused on bilateral relations between Oman and the European Union and ways to enhance them to serve the joint interests.
Zawya
16-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
ITHCA Group and Yango Group launch Yango ecosystem in Oman
As part of the launch, ITHCA Group and Yango Group have completed the acquisition of Otaxi Muscat, Oman – ITHCA Group has partnered with Yango Group, a global technology company, to officially launch the Yango ecosystem in Oman. This collaboration brings advanced digital solutions and AI-driven services to the Sultanate, supporting its ambitions to accelerate digital transformation and drive long-term economic growth. As part of the launch, ITHCA Group and Yango Group have completed the acquisition of Otaxi, a leading Omani mobility platform. In close coordination with the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), ITHCA and Yango Group are enhancing Otaxi's technology stack — improving service speed, precision, accessibility, and scalability — with the aim to expand its operations across all governorates and broaden its service offering in areas such as delivery, rentals, smart maps, and more. These enhancements are designed to elevate Otaxi's performance in line with global best standards, reinforcing Oman's status as a digitally advanced economy. The launch aligns with Oman's Vision 2040 and supports national digital transformation efforts, complementing government programs to diversify the economy and enhance digital capabilities. Backed by a stable regulatory environment and strategic initiatives, the partnership introduces AI-powered services across sectors, rolled out in coordination with local infrastructure and regulations to match national priorities. Eng. Said bin Abdullah Al Mandhari, CEO of ITHCA Group, highlighted the transformative potential of acquisitions in driving business growth, market expansion and competitive advantage in both local and global markets. For emerging startups like Otaxi, such acquisitions provide unmatched opportunities to align with industry leaders, enrich operations and propel projects to international success, setting new standards in service delivery. Al Mandhari further emphasized that integrating Otaxi under the umbrella of a global player marks a critical turning point for the company, promising a swift transition to global operational standards. The full acquisition by ITHCA Group and Yango Global is expected to not only elevate Otaxi's operational benchmarks to international levels but also strengthen its presence in local and international markets. Moreover, this strategic alliance is anticipated to diversify Otaxi's service offerings across various sectors, such as: "Home delivery, vehicle rental services, interactive maps, and other services." fostering comprehensive service integration and enhancing the overall customer experience. Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Group Middle East, added: 'The digital momentum in Oman is strong and supported by bold national initiatives. Yango Group is proud to partner with ITHCA Group in delivering globally-proven, locally-tailored solutions. Our ecosystem is designed to support real-world needs, empower communities, and create long-lasting economic impact through technological innovation.' The Yango ecosystem launch demonstrates a practical example of public-private collaboration to deliver real economic and social benefits. It reinforces Oman's commitment to working with global partners to build a competitive, inclusive digital economy — one that empowers individuals, supports businesses, and attracts future investment.
Observer
04-03-2025
- Health
- Observer
Oman strengthens cancer care through public-private partnerships
MUSCAT: Oman is ramping up its efforts to enhance cancer care through a strategic collaboration between the public and private sectors, ensuring that advanced treatment and early detection services are more accessible to patients. With cancer rates rising globally, the Ministry of Health is working closely with private healthcare providers to expand oncology services and integrate new medical technologies into the healthcare system. During the launch of Aster Al Raffah International Cancer Care Clinic, Dr Ahmed bin Salim al Mandhari, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Health for Planning and Health Organisation, highlighted the importance of such partnerships in strengthening the country's healthcare infrastructure. 'The Ministry of Health is leading strategic plans to tackle non-communicable diseases like cancer, ensuring that patients receive the necessary care, whether through government or private healthcare facilities or even abroad if required,' he said in an exclusive interview with the Observer. EARLY DETECTION AND EXPANDED SCREENING PROGRAMMES A key pillar of Oman's cancer care strategy is early detection, which has been a priority for the Ministry of Health. The national screening programme "Ifhas wa Itma'in" (Check and Be Assured), in place for over 15 years, was recently expanded to include individuals aged 35 and above, improving access to preventive care. 'We have introduced new programmes, including mammograms for breast cancer, which His Majesty supported just two months ago,' Dr Al Mandhari noted. 'Additionally, HPV vaccinations for girls aged 15 and above and pap smear screenings for cervical cancer have been integrated into the national vaccination and maternal health programmes.' These initiatives reflect Oman's commitment to preventive healthcare, reducing the burden of late-stage cancer diagnoses through proactive screening and early intervention. PUBLIC-PRIVATE COLLABORATION DRIVING INNOVATION Dr Al Mandhari emphasised the critical role of private-sector partnerships in advancing cancer treatment. 'The private sector is a strategic partner, bringing innovative technologies and expertise that complement government efforts,' he stated. In addition to private facilities, Oman has invested in specialised cancer centres such as the Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Research and Treatment Centre and the National Centre at Royal Hospital. Experts from these institutions collaborate to introduce cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment modalities, ensuring that patients benefit from the latest medical advancements. By fostering a strong public-private healthcare ecosystem, Oman is expanding access to specialised oncology services, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad and positioning the country as a regional hub for cancer care. A LONG-TERM VISION FOR COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CARE The Ministry of Health is committed to further integrating new technologies into cancer treatment and expanding its collaboration with private healthcare providers. 'We have strategic plans to continuously introduce new diagnostic, treatment and rehabilitation modalities to improve cancer care,' Dr Al Mandhari affirmed. Oman's long-term vision for comprehensive cancer care is built on the foundation of public-private partnerships, early detection programmes and the adoption of advanced medical technologies. By working together, government and private healthcare providers are ensuring that cancer patients in Oman receive world-class treatment, closer to home.
