SALALAH: The Ministry of Energy and Minerals hosted on Sunday an Energy and Minerals Forum in Dhofar Governorate showcasing an array of investment and commercial opportunities linked primarily to the governorate’s abundant mineral wealth.
The event, held under the auspices of His Highness Sayyid Marwan bin Turki al Said, Governor of Dhofar, brought together prominent figures, including Mohsen bin Hamad al Hadhrami, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, as well as shaikhs and local dignitaries..
The forum began with a stimulating keynote address by Mohsen al Hadhrami, shedding light on Oman's thriving minerals sector, with particular emphasis on the Dhofar Governorate. He also introduced the audience to the vast potential of hydrogen and essential projects under the Ministry's supervision.
Addressing the gathering, the Under-Secretary underscored the Ministry's holistic approach towards the minerals sector, spanning exploration, local value addition, production, manufacturing, and exports. This comprehensive strategy aimed at maximizing the economic benefits from the country's rich mineral resources, while also ensuring the sector's dedication to community development, environmental conservation, and supplying raw materials for the booming construction industry.
The forum served as a vital component of the Ministry's broader initiatives to attract investment and foster growth in the sector. The audience was apprised of the Ministry's endeavours to streamline the investment system in mining, defining concession areas, and addressing challenges in receiving previous requests. The creation of an extensive database encompassing geological, geophysical, and exploration surveys across the nation was also announced, promising a consistent and sustainable supply of exploration and mining opportunities.
Emphasizing the Ministry's commitment to high-value metallic minerals, the Under-Secretary expressed the importance of engaging international companies specialized in exploration and mining. This partnership aimed at developing mining industries, generating secure job opportunities, and embracing cutting-edge technologies.
Furthermore, the Ministry has provided designated public sites for local companies to access industrial raw materials, such as gabbro ore, limestone, marble, and ornamental stones. By strategically allocating these sites, the Ministry aims to curtail random quarrying and protect residential areas, thereby striking a balance between industrial growth and environmental preservation.
Al Hadhrami also outlined the Ministry's groundbreaking strides in regulating the hydrogen sector. Robust legal frameworks and policies were established to foster its growth and attract investments. The Ministry also earmarked suitable locations for hydrogen production, with a commitment to localize the technology. Hydrogen was heralded as a key player in diversifying energy sources, reducing carbon emissions, and driving economic growth, in alignment with global movements towards sustainability and clean technologies, he said.
Reflecting on the significant progress made in the mineral sector, the production statistics for 2022 were unveiled. An impressive 63.6 million tonnes of mineral ores were produced, with total sales reaching 57.3 million tonnes, valued at RO 98.974 million.
The establishment of a well-defined regulatory environment would facilitate effective marketing, attract investors, and significantly reduce time and effort in the process, officials said. Moreover, the Ministry's vision encompassed social responsibility, community development, and the empowerment of local capabilities, it was stressed.
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