Latest news with #Sidr
Observer
14-07-2025
- General
- Observer
4 Million tree seeds scattered in Dhofar
SALALAH: A major environmental campaign has been launched in Dhofar Governorate to scatter and plant four million seeds of native Omani trees, reinforcing national efforts to restore vegetation, combat desertification, and preserve biodiversity. The initiative—led by the Environment Authority in collaboration with Dhofar Municipality, OQ, OQ Bioplastics (OQBi), and the 'Wa'i' Awareness Initiative—targets mountainous areas across the wilayats of Salalah, Mirbat, Taqah, Rakhyut, and Dalkut. The campaign will run through 24 July. Now in its fifth consecutive year, the campaign is aligned with Oman's National Initiative to Plant 10 Million Trees, a flagship programme supporting Vision 2040 and the Sultanate's long-term sustainability agenda. Eng. Zahran bin Ahmed Al Abdul Salam, Director General of Environment in Dhofar Governorate, highlighted the strategic timing of the campaign ahead of the Khareef (monsoon) season. 'The heavy rains and persistent fog during autumn create ideal conditions for seed germination and early root development,' he said. 'Planting before the season begins significantly improves the survival rate and allows seedlings to establish resilient root systems.' He added that these well-rooted native plants also stabilise the soil, prevent erosion caused by rainfall and wind, and contribute to soil fertility—an essential factor in reversing desertification and sustaining local ecosystems. The campaign focuses on native tree species known for their resilience and ecological value in Oman, including Sidr (Ziziphus spina-christi), Sagout, Kelit, Warar, Sabar (cactus varieties), and wild fig. These trees are traditionally valued for their environmental, medicinal, and pastoral benefits. In 2024, a similar campaign successfully scattered more than four million seeds in areas including Sadah, Mirbat, and the Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve. That phase featured species such as Frankincense (Boswellia sacra), Samar, Ghaf (Prosopis cineraria), and Arabian Comb (Maerua crassifolia). Seeds were meticulously collected during natural flowering periods, then treated and prepared in specialised facilities to ensure high germination rates. The campaign has mobilised wide participation from government bodies, private sector partners, and local communities, underscoring a growing collective commitment to ecological stewardship. Amid growing environmental challenges and climate pressures, Oman's model of large-scale native tree planting offers a replicable blueprint for arid regions. The Environment Authority plans to expand the initiative in future cycles, with a focus on community involvement, scientific monitoring, and integrated reforestation practices to maximise long-term environmental benefits.
Saba Yemen
28-06-2025
- General
- Saba Yemen
Launching second phase of 20,000 seedlings planting project
Hudaydah (Saba) – The General Authority for Tihama Development and the Agricultural Cooperative Union launched the second phase of the Sidr seedlings planting project in Al Zaydiyah District, Hudaydah Governorate. The second phase aims to plant 20,000 Sidr seedlings, funded by the Agricultural and Fisheries Projects and Initiatives Financing Unit. Whatsapp Telegram Email Print more of (Local)
Saba Yemen
10-06-2025
- General
- Saba Yemen
Hodeida launches major Sidr tree planting project in al-Munirah
Hodeida – Saba: Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources Dr. Radwan al-Rubai and Hodeida Governor Abdullah Atifi on Tuesday inaugurated a project to sow and plant 250,000 Sidr tree seedlings at al-Munirah district nursery. The project, a partnership with local beekeepers and agricultural cooperative societies, aims to expand afforestation and increase agricultural land. Al-Rubai and Atifi were briefed on the nursery's operations, seedling production, and distribution plans, noting its role in supporting community afforestation and improving rural family incomes. Minister al-Rubai highlighted the project's importance for plant production, beekeeping, and self-sufficiency in fruit and environmental trees, emphasizing Sidr's nutritional, medicinal, and cultural value. He stated the ministry prioritizes establishing community nurseries to boost farmer incomes, create jobs, and foster community agricultural partnerships, envisioning al-Munirah as a model for other regions. Governor Atifi hailed the nursery as a developmental gain for al-Munirah, reflecting the state's commitment to agricultural transformation in rural areas. He stressed the governorate's support for environmental and agricultural projects that restore vegetation and combat desertification, urging coordination among associations and nurseries. The governor praised the project's preparation and technical level, seeing it as a model for sustainable agricultural development in Tihama. Whatsapp Telegram Email Print more of (Local)
Muscat Daily
03-06-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
MAFWR moves to boost honey industry
Muscat – The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) held a high-level meeting in Muscat on Tuesday to discuss the development of Oman's beekeeping sector and ways to increase the added value of locally produced honey. The session was chaired by H E Dr Ahmed bin Nasser al Bakri, Undersecretary for Agricultural Resources in MAFWR, and attended by beekeepers, officials from honey export and import companies, and representatives from the ministry. Participants reviewed key economic indicators, identified sector challenges, and discussed proposals to improve production and raise the quality of Omani honey for better competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. H E Bakri described the beekeeping sector as an important part of national food security and a potential contributor to economic diversification. He called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure sustainability and implement best practices in honey production and marketing. Omani honey, particularly Sidr and Samr varieties, is valued for its quality, attributed to the country's biodiversity and unique flora in the region.
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.
