Latest news with #DepartmentofAgricultureandWaterResources
Muscat Daily
23-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Ibra's old fish market to be revamped with RO50,000 investment
Ibra – Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources has announced the launch of a fish market project in Ibra, North Sharqiyah. The initiative aims to boost seafood trade, expand market infrastructure, and improve marketing and sales outlets for fish across the governorate. Dr Anwar al Saadi, Director of Department of Agriculture and Water Resources in Ibra, said the Ibra market project falls within efforts to rebuild and modernise the existing market, located in the commercial district of Al Saffala. One of the oldest fish markets in the governorate, it serves as a key trading point, receiving an estimated 1,250 tonnes of fish annually. The market will cover a total area of 2,081sqm. Fully funded by the ministry at a cost of RO50,000, the project is scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2026. Facilities will include 12 fish display platforms, an ice-making unit, a waiting area, pump room and other public utilities, all within a climate-controlled environment. 'The ministry, in cooperation with the Office of the Governor of North Sharqiyah and other stakeholders, will establish a closed, air-conditioned market that meets public health standards, supports economic activity, and serves the needs of traders and consumers,' Saadi said. The Directorate General in North Sharqiyah currently oversees eight fish markets across the governorate, which collectively support around 100 fish sellers and more than 45 fish cutters from the local community.
Muscat Daily
28-05-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
Oman's beekeepers harvest 3 tonnes of honey in Manah
Manah – The wilayat of Manah in Dakhliyah has recorded a honey yield of around three tonnes this season, mainly comprising the Sidr and Samr varieties. More than 100 beekeepers operate approximately 1,400 beehives in the wilayat, contributing to a growing sector that supports both local livelihoods and the wider economy. Mohammed Harib al Bahlani, Director of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources in Manah, said the profession plays a key role in meeting domestic demand and promoting Omani honey through festivals and trade events within and outside the sultanate. Bahlani said the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources is backing the sector through a national programme that supports honeybee breeding and expansion. The initiative includes training, technical support, and the provision of modern tools to ensure sustainable honey production. 'This season saw a marked increase in Samr honey due to better pasture conditions and the absence of pests and diseases,' Bahlani said. 'The result is higher availability and lower prices for consumers.' The department also organises awareness programmes for students and practical training for beekeepers, covering hive management, bee propagation and queen rearing. Veteran beekeeper Nasser bin Hamoud al Busaidi, who has been harvesting honey for over four decades, recalled collecting honey from valleys and mountains in his early days. 'Today, I maintain a permanent apiary in the wilayat and sell honey through social media, which provides a steady income,' he said. 'I also plan to raise Harmal honey bees soon.' He acknowledged the challenges of transporting hives during extreme heat or drought, but said this season was productive due to abundant Samr blossoms and favourable dry conditions.
