Agriculture forum promotes investment, innovation in food security
Published: 04:07 PM,Jul 28,2024 | EDITED : 08:07 PM,Jul 28,2024
Agriculture forum promotes investment, innovation in food security
Muscat: The Agricultural Forum in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, organised by the General Directorate of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, was inaugurated by Dr Yahya bin Badr al Maawali, Governor of Al Sharqiyah South. Held at the Omani Women's Association in Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan, the two-day forum featured insightful presentations and exhibitions.
On the first day, Dr Masoud bin Suleiman al Azri presented 'Investment in Food Security,' discussing the components of Oman's food production sector, performance indicators of the agricultural and fisheries sectors, the ministry's strategic programme (2021-2025), and investment opportunities in Al Sharqiyah South.
Ishaq bin Mohammed al Naabi presented 'Agricultural Operations,' focusing on quality and market requirements, such as colour consistency, size and absence of defects.
The second day included presentations on 'Elements of Investment in Vital, Economic, Agricultural and Animal Sectors' by Dr Abdullah al Alawi, covering food security concepts, self-sufficiency and challenges in production. He also addressed policies aimed at increasing local and regional food production. Jumana al Rajhi discussed 'The Role of the Development Bank in Empowering Agricultural Projects,' highlighting the bank's financing of agricultural and service projects, seasonal loans and rural women's loans.
The forum's exhibition featured various innovative and educational displays. The use of artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things to detect and treat palm weevil with organic pesticides was showcased as a significant technological advancement.
Oman PVC displayed products made from recycled palm fronds, including doors, windows, decorations and floors. A handicrafts section presented 84 products such as tissue boxes, baskets and environmentally friendly items, while the entrepreneurship area focused on supporting small and medium enterprises through innovative and sustainable programmes.
The Environment Authority promoted the national initiative to plant 10 million trees, banning plastic bags and distributing environmentally friendly bags. The Food Security Department ensured the stability of basic food items during economic crises and climate conditions.
An educational section taught children about the importance of agriculture and the pests affecting it. The Agricultural Research Department specialised in examining soil and water salinity, agricultural propagation methods, field crop experiments, and hydroponics. The Development Bank Corner contributed to financing agricultural and service projects, seasonal projects, and featured the Omani Dates Corner.
On the first day, Dr Masoud bin Suleiman al Azri presented 'Investment in Food Security,' discussing the components of Oman's food production sector, performance indicators of the agricultural and fisheries sectors, the ministry's strategic programme (2021-2025), and investment opportunities in Al Sharqiyah South.
Ishaq bin Mohammed al Naabi presented 'Agricultural Operations,' focusing on quality and market requirements, such as colour consistency, size and absence of defects.
The second day included presentations on 'Elements of Investment in Vital, Economic, Agricultural and Animal Sectors' by Dr Abdullah al Alawi, covering food security concepts, self-sufficiency and challenges in production. He also addressed policies aimed at increasing local and regional food production. Jumana al Rajhi discussed 'The Role of the Development Bank in Empowering Agricultural Projects,' highlighting the bank's financing of agricultural and service projects, seasonal loans and rural women's loans.
The forum's exhibition featured various innovative and educational displays. The use of artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things to detect and treat palm weevil with organic pesticides was showcased as a significant technological advancement.
Oman PVC displayed products made from recycled palm fronds, including doors, windows, decorations and floors. A handicrafts section presented 84 products such as tissue boxes, baskets and environmentally friendly items, while the entrepreneurship area focused on supporting small and medium enterprises through innovative and sustainable programmes.
The Environment Authority promoted the national initiative to plant 10 million trees, banning plastic bags and distributing environmentally friendly bags. The Food Security Department ensured the stability of basic food items during economic crises and climate conditions.
An educational section taught children about the importance of agriculture and the pests affecting it. The Agricultural Research Department specialised in examining soil and water salinity, agricultural propagation methods, field crop experiments, and hydroponics. The Development Bank Corner contributed to financing agricultural and service projects, seasonal projects, and featured the Omani Dates Corner.