The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has significantly expanded its collaboration with the Sultanate of Oman, achieving an 83% increase in the total value of its projects, Times of Oman reports.
In 2024, FAO’s project portfolio in Oman reached $4.28 million, up from $2.34 million in 2022. The organization’s diverse initiatives, developed in partnership with the Omani government and private sector, aim to enhance food security and strengthen local capacities. Key focus areas include climate resilience, apiculture, improved agricultural practices, and value-added projects in fisheries and livestock.
Dr. Thaer Yaseen, interim FAO Representative in Oman, stated: “As we celebrate FAO’s 80th anniversary, we are proud to implement numerous initiatives in close collaboration with the Omani government, private sector, and civil society. These efforts reaffirm our commitment to supporting Oman in achieving sustainable development and food security.”
As part of its climate resilience strategy, FAO is working closely with Oman’s Environment Authority to align its initiatives with the National Environmental Strategy. Efforts include restoring degraded lands, promoting water conservation in agriculture, and integrating advanced technologies to enhance adaptation and mitigation practices. These measures not only protect Oman’s unique ecosystems but also strengthen community resilience to climate risks, setting a model for sustainable development in arid regions.
Beyond its work in Oman, FAO continues to drive global initiatives such as the International Year of Camelids, highlighting the crucial role of camelids in food security and livelihoods in arid areas. The initiative emphasizes the sustainable use and preservation of these animals to support communities that depend on them.
FAO’s success in Oman is made possible through strong partnerships with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources (MAFWR), the Environment Authority (EA), and Sultan Qaboos University (SQU). Collaborations with private sector entities such as Al Jisr Foundation, Oman India Fertiliser Company (Omifco), and Al Zubair Corporation further amplify FAO’s impact, supporting Oman’s vision for a sustainable and food-secure future.
