MUSCAT, FEB 26
Beyond its ambitious RO 700 million infrastructure investment, Nama Water Services (NWS) is positioning itself as a driver of economic growth, local workforce development, and sustainability in Oman’s water sector. Qais bin Saud al Zakwani, CEO of Nama Water Services, highlighted the company’s commitment to in-country value (ICV), Omanisation, and operational efficiency in an exclusive interview with Observer.
"These projects are not just about expanding our water and wastewater networks; they are about building a sustainable ecosystem that benefits Oman’s economy," Al Zakwani stated. "Through ICV initiatives, we ensure that local contractors, suppliers, and workforce development remain at the heart of our investments."
STRENGTHENING IN-COUNTRY VALUE
Nama Water Services’ projects contribute RO 193 million to ICV, a critical component of Oman’s economic strategy. Al Zakwani explained that the company’s approach is designed to maximise benefits for local businesses.
"When we execute these projects, we don’t just want to complete them—we want to create lasting economic value. By prioritizing local contractors and materials, we ensure that the investments translate into sustainable growth for Omani businesses," he said.
Beyond contracts, the company’s focus on ICV extends to job creation and skills development. Nama Water Services has introduced long-term contracts with service providers, fostering employment opportunities and skill enhancement in the sector.
ACCELERATING OMANISATION
A key highlight of Nama’s strategy is its workforce localization efforts. The company aims to increase the Omanisation rate in contractor firms from 55% to 84% by 2025. This is being achieved through the creation of nearly 900 jobs in the water and wastewater sectors.
"We announced 450 jobs last year, and this year we are adding another 410 positions. With this, we will have created around 880 jobs in the sector," Al Zakwani shared. "These are not just numbers—we are providing opportunities for Omanis to build long-term careers in this critical sector." The recruitment process has already begun, with new employees undergoing assessments and training to equip them with the necessary technical expertise.
ENHANCING OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY AND WATER SECURITY
Alongside infrastructure expansion, Nama Water Services is prioritizing operational improvements. With water quality compliance reaching 99%, the company has implemented an advanced management system to maintain consistency across its networks.
"The water that leaves Barka is the same water that reaches Jabal Akhdar. Ensuring this consistency is a major challenge, but we have an integrated system in place to maintain quality throughout the distribution process," Al Zakwani explained.
The company is also leveraging treated wastewater for agriculture and industrial applications, reducing reliance on freshwater sources and supporting Oman’s sustainability goals.
ADDRESSING EXPANSION CHALLENGES
Despite these advancements, Nama Water Services faces logistical and operational challenges in expanding network coverage beyond 72%. The scale of the investment program, availability of skilled contractors, and public safety concerns are among the primary hurdles.
"With such a massive CAPEX programme, ensuring we have the right contractors and workforce in place is crucial. We are also mindful of the safety risks associated with heavy excavation work, and we are implementing awareness programs to mitigate these risks," Al Zakwani noted.
As Nama Water Services moves forward with its strategic projects, its dual focus on infrastructure expansion and economic development reinforces its role as a key player in Oman’s long-term water security and sustainability agenda.
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