The Environment Society of Oman (ESO) held its Annual General Meeting on Tuesday where the organisation presented project updates and its strategy for the next five years. At the AGM Dr Amor al Matani was appointed President, succeeding HH Sayyida Tania al Said who is stepping down from the role after 19 years. ESO also nominated Nasser al Maskari, one of the founders of ESO, and Dr Omama al Lawati, to join the board, pending approval from the Ministry of Social Development.
HH Sayyida Tania said, “It has been my honour and privilege to have served as ESO’s President since its inception in 2004. While many achievements and milestones have been realised, the future holds renewed promise of even more. As we move into our 20th year, the time has come for me to pass the baton to a new President. I am confident that my successor, Dr Amor al Matani, will drive forward our organisation’s mission to protect Oman’s natural environment and confident that ESO’s achievements will continue to grow.”
Dr Al Matani said, “This is a responsibility that I take great honour in accepting and one I take on with both passion and a determined commitment to ensure that we continue to deliver on our mission. We will continue to undertake pioneering marine and terrestrial research, work tirelessly to protect threatened and endangered species in Oman, and raise awareness within the community about the importance of adopting more sustainable lifestyles. Together we will continue to ensure that the incredible biodiversity found in Oman is celebrated and protected for future generations.”
Dr Al Matani also paid tribute to HH Sayyida Tania, adding, “ HH Sayyida Tania’s tireless encouragement and support has been instrumental to all that ESO has achieved. She has been the driving force behind ESO for nearly 20 years. Her personal commitment to environmental conservation in Oman will continue to inspire us all.” Holding an MBA and a PhD in Sustainability, Dr Al Matani enjoyed a successful career working in key industries where he always has strived for a more sustainable Oman. He has a keen interest in education and is a member of several university and technical college boards, as well as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for OLNG’s HAS International School and a board member of the Oman Centre of Governance and Sustainability (OCGS). He has served as a member of the ESO board since 2012.
During the AGM, ESO also presented members with an outline of its key achievements from 2022 and shared an overview of its plans for 2023. This included the launch of a new Five-Year Strategy, covering 2023-2027 which defines ESO’s mission and strategic priorities for the next five years. Focusing on the impacts of climate change, biodiversity loss and habitat degradation, ESO will aim to form strong and cooperative relationships with stakeholders to promote a more environmentally conscious and responsible local culture.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
