Latest news with #DirectorateGeneralofAgriculture
Times of Oman
04-05-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Wheat cultivation in Najd exceeds 6,000 acres
Thumrait: The total area cultivated with wheat in Najd agricultural region in Dhofar Governorate has reached approximately 6,400 acres across 52 farms, with an expected production of 6,000 tons for the 2024/2025 season. Farmers in Najd began harvesting operations in early April this year under the supervision of the Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhofar, in collaboration with the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Fund. Eng. Fael Mohammed Al Jahfali, Director General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhofar, stated that the cultivated area for this season in Najd reached 6,400 acres, compared to 7,600 acres across 84 farms last season. He noted that 13 harvesters were deployed to support farmers during the harvesting process. He explained that the decrease in wheat cultivation this season is due to some farmers shifting from wheat to other crops due to changing environmental and economic conditions. Additionally, the growing number of farmers seeking government wheat subsidies has prompted many to explore alternative crops with higher economic viability. Alternative crops such as onions, tomatoes, fodder, garlic, and certain vegetables—which require less water and yield faster returns—have gained traction. Al Jahfali highlighted that the ministry provided 30 tons of wheat seeds, subsidized at 50%, in cooperation with the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Fund. The ministry also offered free wheat harvesters and facilitated procedures for farmers to deliver wheat to Oman Flour Mills Company. He emphasized wheat's importance in food security as one of the most strategic and economically vital crops. The ministry is committed to expanding its cultivation across Oman, including Najd in Dhofar, which holds promise due to its vast agricultural land and suitable groundwater for farming. In parallel, the ministry has introduced several incentives to encourage farmers to expand wheat cultivation and improve its quality and productivity. These include providing enhanced seed varieties, such as "Najd 1," "Najd 2," "Wadi Qurayat 110, 308, 226, 227," "Jibreen," and "Koli." It is worth noting that the ministry aims to promote and expand wheat cultivation by supplying farmers with seeds and harvesting equipment, in addition to offering agricultural guidance in cooperation with the Omani Farmers' Association.
Zawya
14-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: MAFWR expands model grape farming in N Sharqiyah
Ibra – Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water (MAFWR) is stepping up efforts to achieve greater agricultural self-sufficiency with expansion of a targeted grape farming initiative in North Sharqiyah. The move is part of the country's broader strategy to enhance food security, support rural livelihoods and diversify the economy. MAFWR is continuing to rollout of its Model Grape Farms Project in Ibra. The initiative aims to significantly expand grape cultivation in North Sharqiyah while encouraging youth participation in the agricultural sector. An official from the Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in North Sharqiyah said the project was launched in response to recommendations from the inaugural Grape Festival held in 2023. 'This project offers a genuine opportunity to establish grapes as a commercially viable crop while inspiring young farmers to continue cultivation,' the official said. 'Grapes hold considerable economic potential not just in Ibra, but across the governorate.' Key objectives of the project include increasing cultivated land area, improving yield and opening new marketing channels for local farmers. The initiative also emphasises private sector involvement, promotes contract farming through agricultural associations, and aims to generate employment in rural areas. 'Our goal is to achieve significant increase in grape cultivation to a total of 72 acres. We anticipate annual production of up to 250 tonnes, with estimated economic return exceeding RO250,000,' the official said. Participating farmers will receive comprehensive support, including installation of trellising systems, modern irrigation infrastructure, fencing and access to high-quality seedlings. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Muscat Daily
12-04-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
MAFWR expands model grape farming in N Sharqiyah
Ibra – Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water (MAFWR) is stepping up efforts to achieve greater agricultural self-sufficiency with expansion of a targeted grape farming initiative in North Sharqiyah. The move is part of the country's broader strategy to enhance food security, support rural livelihoods and diversify the economy. MAFWR is continuing to rollout of its Model Grape Farms Project in Ibra. The initiative aims to significantly expand grape cultivation in North Sharqiyah while encouraging youth participation in the agricultural sector. An official from the Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in North Sharqiyah said the project was launched in response to recommendations from the inaugural Grape Festival held in 2023. 'This project offers a genuine opportunity to establish grapes as a commercially viable crop while inspiring young farmers to continue cultivation,' the official said. 'Grapes hold considerable economic potential not just in Ibra, but across the governorate.' Key objectives of the project include increasing cultivated land area, improving yield and opening new marketing channels for local farmers. The initiative also emphasises private sector involvement, promotes contract farming through agricultural associations, and aims to generate employment in rural areas. 'Our goal is to achieve significant increase in grape cultivation to a total of 72 acres. We anticipate annual production of up to 250 tonnes, with estimated economic return exceeding RO250,000,' the official said. Participating farmers will receive comprehensive support, including installation of trellising systems, modern irrigation infrastructure, fencing and access to high-quality seedlings.
Times of Oman
12-02-2025
- General
- Times of Oman
Sustainable Abalone fishing yields positive results in Dhofar
Muscat: The 2024 abalone fishing season in Dhofar Governorate has yielded positive results, with the stock demonstrating a significant improvement in both size and abundance. According to a survey conducted by the Fisheries Research Center at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, the total production exceeded 76 tonnes during the 10-day fishing season. This marks a notable increase compared to the 149 tons harvested during the 30-day fishing season in 2011, despite a significant reduction in the number of licenses issued this year (2,369 compared to 4,418 in 2011). Eng. Muslim bin Salem Rafeet, Assistant Director General of Fisheries at the Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhofar Governorate, highlighted the success of the season. He stated that the Wilayat of Sadah contributed the most to the overall production, accounting for 93.5%, while the Wilayat of Mirbat contributed 6.5%. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources has implemented several measures to ensure the sustainable management of the abalone fishery. These measures include: Establishing size limits for caught abalone Implementing seasonal fishing closures Setting stringent requirements for fishing licenses Promoting the use of appropriate fishing methods and tools Conducting awareness campaigns to educate the public on sustainable fishing practices The Department of Fisheries in Dhofar Governorate has established a dedicated working team to oversee the implementation of these measures and ensure the successful execution of the abalone fishing season. This team has also launched a new visual identity to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable abalone fishing. To ensure responsible fishing practices, the Ministry has carefully determined the optimal number of divers to participate in the season, balancing economic benefits with the need to protect the long-term sustainability of the abalone population. Approximately 2,459 fishermen met the required conditions and were granted licenses, out of a total of 2,475 licenses issued. The Wilayat of Mirbat led in the number of diving licenses issued (47%), followed by Sadah (42%), Salalah (7%), and other regions. Furthermore, 66% of the licenses issued this season were granted to experienced divers who held licenses in previous seasons, while 34% were issued to new entrants, primarily from the Wilayats of Mirbat and Sadah. A total of 106 licenses were issued for the processing, storage, and trading of abalone, with 11 centers approved for trading purposes. Eng. Rafeet emphasized the unique significance of the Omani abalone. "Abalone is a unique resource found only in the Sultanate of Oman in the Middle East region," he stated. "It inhabits the southern coastline, stretching from the Sharbat area in the Wilayat of Shaleem and the Al-Hallaniyat Islands to the Wilayat of Mirbat." He further highlighted the social and economic importance of the abalone fishery. "Omani abalone is a valuable resource that provides significant economic benefits to local communities," he explained. "It is a source of income for many fishermen and contributes to the national economy through exports to international markets. The average price of Omani abalone in the local market is approximately OMR 45 per kilogram, while its global market value can reach up to OMR 200 per kilogram." Eng. Rafeet also emphasized the role of abalone in supporting the tourism sector, attracting visitors to the region and stimulating commercial activity. The Ministry has embraced technological advancements in fisheries management, utilizing drones for the first time to monitor abalone fisheries and guide enforcement efforts. Additionally, the license application process has been digitized, streamlining procedures and improving efficiency. Key Improvements: Enhanced Structure and Flow: The text is now organized into clear paragraphs with improved flow and readability. Stronger Opening: The opening sentence highlights the positive results of the abalone fishing season. Focus on Sustainability: The text emphasizes the importance of sustainable fishing practices and the measures implemented by the Ministry to ensure the long-term health of the abalone population. Economic and Social Impact: The economic and social significance of the abalone fishery is clearly articulated.
Times of Oman
09-02-2025
- General
- Times of Oman
Efforts to raise coconut production in Dhofar governorate
Salalah: The Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhofar Governorate reaffirmed that it is working on creation of sustainable solutions for the decrease in production of coconut in the wilayats of Salalah and Taqa. The decision was taken after analysis of the findings of the survey conducted by the joint field teams comprising the consumer protection authority and other government departments. Mussalam bin Salim Rafait, acting Director General at the Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhofar Governorate, said that the availability of coconut in Dhofar Governorate has decreased during the last decade due to its shipment within the governorates, improper practices and the impact of plant pests on the quality and productivity besides low productivity during winters due to the cold weather and decrease in cultivation area of coconut trees due to change in land use. He said that the Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources is working on boosting the productivity and expansion in coconut cultivation area. New areas for cultivation, investment and continuation of pest control operations coupled with regulating the agricultural marketing chains through local Omani companies have been done, he said. It is worth mentioning that Dhofar Governorate is known for growing tropical fruits such as coconut which is common in the coastal areas of the governorate. The annual productivity of coconut in Salalah plain land amounts to 7,000 tonnes.
