MUSCAT ,MARCH 12
In a step towards bolstering food security and economic diversification in general, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning (MoHUP) signed 12 usufruct contracts with total investment value of RO 2.6 million.
The agreements, forged in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAWFR) and the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises, encompass projects in both the agricultural and industrial sectors distributed across various governorates of the Sultanate of Oman.
Six of the contracts prioritize agricultural endeavours. These projects, covering a total investment of RO 1.9 million and encompassing an area of 1.3 million square meters, are strategically distributed across Al Dakhiliyah, Al Dhahirah, North Al Batinah, South Al Batinah, and North Al Sharqiyah governorates. Aligned with Oman's ambitious vision, these initiatives aim to invigorate the agricultural sector and bolster domestic food production.
Demonstrating a commitment to fostering a vibrant SME landscape, MoHUP also signed six usufruct contracts geared towards small and medium enterprises. Totalling around RO 738,000 in investment, these pacts encompass industrial projects situated in Al Dakhiliyah, North Al Sharqiyah, North Al Batinah, and South Al Batinah governorates. The agreements leverage the "Choose and Invest" service within the Haq system and the Tatweer platform to streamline the investment process and empower SMEs.
The signing ceremony witnessed participation from key stakeholders, including high-levels officials from the MoHUP, MAWFR's Department of Agriculture, and the SME Authority’s In-Country Value Department.
In remarks at the event, Ahmed al Kamyani, Director General of Lands at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, said: “These agreements underline the Ministry's commitment to developing various economic sectors and creating new job opportunities for citizens. Six agricultural projects are designed to bolster food security and generate new jobs in the agricultural sector. The other six have been assigned to SMEs holding the Riyada card, aimed at supporting entrepreneurs and fostering private sector growth.”
Looking ahead, Al Kamyani announced the launch of roughly 800 investment opportunities that will become available around Oman during 2024. These opportunities will be accessible through the 'Tatweer' e-platform, designed to streamline the investment process and attract domestic and international investors. Additionally, the Ministry will offer 200 investment plots this year through the 'Choose Your Project' program, which provides pre-designed plans for high-quality investment projects.
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