Ginger cultivation project yields promising results

SALALAH: The Directorate-General of Agricultural, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhofar Governorate has reported encouraging results from its ginger cultivation project launched in 2024 in the wilayats of Rakhyout and Dhalkout.
Funded by the Agricultural and Fisheries Development Fund, the project marks a qualitative step toward strengthening the agricultural sector and enhancing food security in the governorate.
The first phase, launched in June 2024, involved around 30 farmers cultivating ginger over an estimated two acres. The initial harvest yielded approximately one tonne.
The second phase, completed in 2025, targeted an additional 30 farmers. The second-season harvest, conducted in February 2026, recorded production of about 2.5 tonnes — reflecting significant growth compared to the pilot season.
Preliminary indicators suggest that ginger is a promising crop with strong potential for expansion and investment, contributing to increased local production and reduced reliance on imports.
Eng Radwan bin Abdullah al Ibrahim, Director of the Agricultural Development Department and project manager, said the initiative goes beyond cultivation, providing farmers with technical and advisory support. This includes land preparation, installation of modern irrigation systems and continuous follow-up from planting through harvest.
He noted that the ginger project builds on the success of efforts to localise turmeric cultivation in Dhofar, aiming to promote high-value crops with nutritional and economic benefits.
Al Ibrahim added that plans are underway to expand the project to additional wilayats over the next two years, targeting more farmers and creating sustainable income opportunities for local families.
He emphasised that while the current season has shown marked progress, further support is needed in marketing, storage and expansion of cultivated areas to boost production volumes and enhance economic viability.
The initiative reflects Dhofar’s growing focus on modern agricultural practices and diversification to strengthen food security and rural livelihoods. — ONA