Latest news with #nationaldevelopment
Times of Oman
12-07-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
State Council concludes second regular session
Muscat: Based on the Royal directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the State Council has concluded the work of the second regular session of its eighth term. His Excellency Khalid bin Ahmed Al Saadi, Secretary-General of the State Council, confirmed that this session witnessed intensive legislative activity, with the Council discussing several specialised draft laws aligned with current national priorities and citizens' aspirations. The Council also fulfilled its legislative role by reviewing a number of key national study proposals. His Excellency highlighted the Council's accomplishments, stating that the session reflected a comprehensive set of legislative activities demonstrating the Council's commitment to its national duties. Fourteen draft laws were discussed, along with amendments to existing legislation across sectors such as the economy, education, health, and technology. These discussions aimed to enhance the investment climate, improve social services, and reinforce national development. He noted that the Council's standing committees were particularly active, holding multiple meetings to address priority topics and preparing key recommendations for general sessions. Open forums were also organised with civil society representatives, experts, and officials to enhance public participation in decision-making and encourage cross-sector collaboration. During this session, the Council held eight general sessions and reviewed 18 topics. Among the draft laws discussed were those related to electronic transactions, public health, financial legislation, individual income tax, and the regulation of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The discussions featured constructive input from members, with in-depth debates exploring legislative aspects of each proposal. Two joint sessions were also held with the Shura Council to resolve differences in specific articles of draft laws. These sessions concluded with consensus on all disputed points, reflecting national unity and public interest. The Council's office held six meetings, reviewed 60 topics, and issued 45 decisions, focusing on session organisation, committee coordination, member proposals, and administrative matters. Three meetings were also held with heads and rapporteurs of permanent committees to strengthen legislative coordination and align with government frameworks. In line with Article (77) of the Law of the Council of Oman, the Council of Ministers also met with the Chairman and members of the Council's office during the session. Standing committees held 72 main meetings and 90 sub-meetings, hosting 45 representatives from public and private sector entities. Special committees held 27 main and 3 sub-meetings, hosting state officials to support their studies. Additionally, 11 joint committee meetings were held with the Shura Council to review specific draft law provisions. Externally, the Council maintained its presence in regional and international forums, participating in conferences, parliamentary events, and global seminars. These included meetings of GCC legislative bodies, the Arab Parliament, the Parliamentary Union of OIC Member States, the Inter-Parliamentary Union, and others. The Council's international participation helped enhance Oman's global legislative standing, reaffirmed its commitment to democratic values and human rights, and supported its positions in international forums. Domestically, the Council prioritised coordination with national institutions, hosting ministers and senior officials who presented detailed reports on institutional performance, policy implementation, and project indicators. These sessions facilitated dialogue and performance assessment. Concluding the session, His Excellency noted that several significant draft laws were approved, reinforcing the Council's legislative engagement and its commitment to national development. He reaffirmed the Council's dedication to continuing this work in future sessions in service of Oman and its comprehensive development goals.
Zawya
07-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: What are government jobs really for?
Not long ago, I came across a social media post that many in Oman found relatable—and even comforting. A young employee in the public sector shared his daily routine: short working hours from 7 am to 2 pm, a 20-minute drive back home, lunch prepared by his mother, followed by a restful afternoon nap. His evening was free for leisure activities, including a sunset cruise with his hiking group. It's an image many dream of: job security, work-life balance, and time to enjoy life with family and friends. But the post also made me pause. In a country where the government remains the largest employer and carries the weight of national development, can we afford to see public sector jobs primarily as a path to comfort and early afternoons? This isn't about blaming the young man. He's doing what thousands of others do—and he's grateful for it. But it raises a bigger question that Oman can no longer avoid: What do we expect from government work? And what does the country need from it, now and in the years ahead? For decades, getting a government job has been a major milestone for many Omani families. It meant stability, a reliable salary, and respectable working hours. These jobs helped create a middle class and supported livelihoods across the Sultanate. But today, things are different. Oman is pushing forward with Vision 2040. We are diversifying our economy, investing in clean energy, logistics, industry, and digital transformation. We are reforming our finances, reducing reliance on oil, and trying to create a private sector that can compete globally. That future needs a different kind of workforce—one that delivers value, not just attendance. Here's the truth: public sector salaries and operating costs still make up the largest part of government spending. But how much of that cost is truly productive? If large parts of the public workforce are underutilised, unchallenged, or working within outdated systems, the country carries not just a financial burden—but an opportunity cost. We miss out on what these people could be contributing. Meanwhile, the private sector is working harder. It's more competitive, more demanding, and in many ways, more aligned with the new economy. Yet we still see many young graduates avoiding it—not because they lack skills, but because the public sector still offers an easier, more predictable path. That mismatch creates problems. Talented Omanis are not joining the sectors that need them most—like logistics, technology, industry, or renewable energy. Our labour market becomes distorted. And our economy slows down. This is why we need to think differently about public jobs. They shouldn't be seen as a reward for showing up—they should be about public value. Government jobs should inspire innovation, solve problems, and improve how we serve citizens and businesses. This doesn't mean stripping away job security or increasing stress. It means bringing purpose back into the role. It means linking performance to recognition, encouraging people to learn, grow, and make a difference. It means celebrating those who move the country forward—not just those who clock in and clock out. A civil servant in today's Oman isn't just managing files or attending meetings. They're part of a national strategy. They help deliver policies, reform services, attract investment, support communities, and lead change. That's a responsibility worth taking seriously—and worth being proud of. If we continue treating government jobs as the safest and most comfortable option, we will struggle to build a future-ready economy. But if we treat them as a platform for contribution, for purpose, for real national service—then we will have a workforce that matches our ambitions. So yes, the lunch at home, the midday rest, and the evening adventures sound lovely. But I believe Oman's young men and women want more. They want to matter. They want their work to count. Let's give them a public sector that challenges them to do exactly that. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
03-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
National Revenue Authority Board Pays Courtesy Call on Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio, Updates on Revenue Mobilization Efforts
His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio today received members of the Board of the National Revenue Authority (NRA) at State House, where the delegation briefed him on the authority's ongoing activities and performance. Board Chairman Mr. Kabineh Kallon, in his opening remarks, expressed gratitude to President Bio for granting them audience and congratulated him on his recent election as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government. He noted that the visit was to update the President on the NRA's work, acknowledging that despite the numerous challenges faced by the authority, it has remained committed to mobilizing revenue for the State. Commissioner-General Madam Jeneba Kamara reaffirmed the NRA's commitment to fulfilling its mandate. She acknowledged the operational challenges but assured the President that the authority is working diligently to enhance revenue collection and improve compliance across the board. In his response, President Bio welcomed the NRA delegation and expressed appreciation for the briefing. He emphasized the critical importance of the NRA's work to the country's development. 'Your sole mandate is to mobilize revenue for the State. The State can only function effectively when it has the resources to do so,' the President stated. He described the NRA as the 'breadbasket of the nation' and urged the Board to remain vigilant and proactive in generating income that can be used to finance national development priorities. Board member Madam Memuna Rogers, also addressed the meeting, highlighting the progress and initiatives made in maximizing revenue mobilization. She further explained that the NRA had instituted enhanced compliance measures to encourage taxpayers to meet their obligations, a move that will be critical in meeting next year's revenue targets. The visit reaffirmed the NRA's commitment to supporting national development through consistent and improved revenue generation. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Sierra Leone.
Asharq Al-Awsat
01-07-2025
- Politics
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Egypt Marks ‘June 30' Anniversary Amid New Challenges
Egypt marked the 12th anniversary of the June 30 uprising on Monday with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi vowing to press ahead with national development despite deepening economic strains and regional instability. In a televised address, el-Sisi said the 2013 uprising, which ousted the Muslim Brotherhood from power, had thwarted chaos and terrorism, steering the country back onto what he called the 'right path.' 'The revolution was a national epic that confronted terrorism and conspiracies, broke the waves of chaos, and foiled attempts at blackmail and abduction,' el-Sisi said. 'It marked the beginning of our journey toward the New Republic.' Egypt, he said, had 'defeated terrorism, faced internal and external challenges, and embarked on comprehensive development to build a modern nation.' But the president acknowledged that the road ahead remains difficult, citing 'heavy burdens and enormous challenges' as the country grapples with high inflation, a weakening currency and the impact of global conflicts. 'The strength of Egypt lies not only in its weaponry, but in your awareness, your unity, and your rejection of division, despair and hatred,' Sisi told Egyptians. 'You are the true shield and beating heart of this nation.' El-Sisi also warned that this year's anniversary comes at a time of escalating regional violence. 'The entire region is burning—from Gaza to Sudan, Libya, Syria, Yemen and Somalia,' he said, urging warring parties and the international community to 'heed the voice of reason' and work toward peace. 'Egypt has always been a supporter of peace,' el-Sisi added. 'Peace is not born of bombing, nor imposed by force, nor achieved through normalization rejected by peoples.' He cited the Egypt-Israel peace deal of the 1970s, brokered by the United States, as a model for difficult but possible reconciliation. Analysts speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat said Egypt faced 'existential threats' in the aftermath of the 2013 events, and now confronts a new wave of challenges requiring bold reforms and swift action. El-Sisi pledged to prioritize easing the burden on ordinary Egyptians, especially in the face of rising regional volatility. 'We do not bow, and we will not turn away from our aspirations,' he said. 'This is Egypt—resilient in the face of challenges, built by the will of its people, and kept alive by their devotion.' Twelve years after the mass protests that toppled the Muslim Brotherhood-backed government, Egypt is grappling with fresh economic and geopolitical headwinds that are testing the country's resilience and reform agenda. The June 30, 2013 uprising ended the presidency of Mohamed Morsi - Egypt's first elected Islamist leader - after just one year in power. Millions took to the streets demanding his removal, accusing the Brotherhood of consolidating power and mismanaging the country. Morsi and senior Brotherhood leaders were later jailed on charges including espionage, incitement and violence. The group was outlawed and designated a terrorist organization by Egyptian authorities. The aftermath of the Brotherhood's fall brought a raft of challenges. Egypt faced international criticism, deteriorating ties with several countries, and a suspension of its African Union membership. Domestically, the country was rocked by a wave of militant attacks, particularly in the restive North Sinai region. But over time, Egypt managed to stabilize both its security and foreign relations. Ties with regional rivals such as Türkiye and Qatar were restored, and strategic partnerships were expanded with the European Union, the United States, Russia, and China. At home, authorities declared terrorism in Sinai had been defeated and launched long-term development projects in the peninsula. Still, new challenges are emerging. The ongoing Gaza war and its fallout have heightened regional instability, triggering tensions in the Red Sea that have severely hit Suez Canal revenues, a vital source of hard currency. According to government figures, canal earnings have dropped by 61% in recent months, exacerbating Egypt's economic crisis, marked by soaring inflation and a weakened currency. 'Over the past 12 years, Egypt has overcome the post-June 30 turmoil, most notably terrorism, and maintained its stability in an increasingly volatile region,' said Abdel Moneim Said, a member of Egypt's Senate. 'The Brotherhood has lost ground in Egyptian society. Their presence is now largely confined to online voices with no political influence.' Egypt's years-long military campaign in North Sinai was described by el-Sisi in 2022 as 'the first line of defense' for the nation. In 2023, Sisi announced the state had succeeded in preventing the region from becoming a permanent hub for terrorism, and pledged continued investment in its development. Amr El-Shobaki, a senior political analyst at Al-Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies, said Egypt had faced 'existential threats' in the immediate aftermath of the uprising. 'Cairo successfully contained the threat of terrorism, which at one point endangered the capital and other key cities,' he said. However, El-Shobaki warned of a shifting landscape. 'The country is now facing pressing economic challenges - rising prices, inflation, and lack of clear priorities,' he said, referencing public backlash over a recent high-profile incident in Monufia involving teenage girls, which sparked widespread criticism of government performance, weak political opposition, and state media's limited crisis coverage. Still, Senator Said described such scrutiny as 'normal and healthy,' saying criticism of government oversight and parliamentary accountability was a sign of a functioning public discourse. As Egypt looks ahead, analysts say the country must balance its security gains with urgent reforms to restore economic confidence and manage public expectations in a turbulent region. Egypt's government came under fire following a deadly road crash that killed 19 schoolgirls and injured three others in Monufia province, north of Cairo, just days ahead of the June 30 anniversary. The incident sparked public outrage and renewed parliamentary calls for accountability, further highlighting concerns over government performance, priorities, and political opposition. The accident, which took place on the Regional Ring Road last Friday, prompted several members of parliament to demand the dismissal of officials. The criticism underscored what lawmakers and analysts say is a deeper issue of weak governance, bureaucratic inefficiency, and lack of clear national priorities. Senator Said said Egypt's current challenge lies in 'harnessing talent, encouraging investment, completing economic reforms, and dismantling bureaucracy.' He expressed cautious optimism, pointing to positive indicators such as declining birth rates and rising remittances from Egyptians abroad. El-Shobaki said Egypt had already overcome existential threats in the past, but now faces a different kind of test: institutional reform and political renewal. 'Today's challenge is reforming the institutions that were once under threat,' he said. 'Addressing the economic crisis requires serious reform at both institutional and political levels.' In response to mounting economic pressures - worsened by global crises and regional instability - Egypt has pursued a series of policy shifts aimed at attracting foreign investment and boosting private sector participation. The Egyptian pound has fallen steeply in recent months, trading above 50 to the dollar in unofficial markets. Officially, the rate stands at 49.6 pounds per dollar. Cairo also secured an $8 billion loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), tied to a sweeping economic reform plan that includes reducing the state's role in the economy and divesting from certain sectors. But experts warn that reforms must go deeper to yield tangible results. 'The main challenge today is economic,' said economist Mostafa Badra. 'With inflation rising and prices soaring, Egypt must improve the pound's value by attracting investment, increasing exports, and building a stronger industrial base.' He cautioned that relying on the sale of state assets without building a sustainable industrial sector 'will not solve the crisis.' Former Deputy Prime Minister and political economist Ziad Bahaa-Eldin has repeatedly urged the government to adopt a long-term economic strategy. He has also highlighted the unresolved question of the state's role in the economy, which continues to fuel debate among economists and policymakers. As Egypt marks over a decade since the Brotherhood's fall, analysts say the focus must now shift from security victories to structural reforms if the country is to regain economic stability and rebuild public trust.
Asharq Al-Awsat
29-06-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi ROSHN Group Named One of World's 25 Most Powerful Real Estate Brands by Brand Finance
ROSHN Group, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), has been ranked among the 25 most powerful real estate brands in the world by Brand Finance, a leading global brand valuation consultancy. This marks the first time a Saudi real estate company has achieved this recognition. Brand Finance valued ROSHN Group at over $1 billion, citing its strong financial and commercial performance, as well as its ambitious strategic and marketing initiatives. The company's newly launched corporate identity reflects its expanded focus, which now includes hospitality, sports, residential and commercial development, and the retail sector. The report commended ROSHN's commitment to innovation and sustainability, along with its pivotal role in advancing national development goals in line with Saudi Vision 2030. Surpassing the $1 billion brand value milestone is seen as a clear indication of ROSHN's growing impact and its strategic contribution to the future of real estate development in the Kingdom. Last month, ROSHN was also named the highest-ranking real estate brand in Saudi Arabia and recognized as the best-performing new brand in the region.
