Oman

Platform launched to support low-income families

 
The Ministry of Social Development, in partnership with the World Network for Information Technology Solutions Company, has introduced the ‘Maksab’ platform. This platform is designed to assist and support low-income families, families under social security, and SMEs in finding markets for their products and services, as part of the social security initiative.

The launch ceremony took place under the patronage of Sayyid Saud bin Hilal al Busaidy, Governor of Muscat, and was attended by Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najar, Minister of Social Development, as well as ministry officials and other dignitaries.

The ‘Maksab’ electronic platform consists of three applications: Maksab, Tawseel Maksab, and Taagir Maksab. Each application offers different features to support families, aiming to provide a unified platform for both vendors and customers.

Omaima bint Ali al Mahriyah, the head of the Makasib platform for Muscat Governorate, explained that Maksab serves as a virtual shop, enabling social security families to connect with customers and explore new opportunities for their products and services. The platform is accessible via mobile phones, ensuring widespread availability.

Maani bint Abdullah al Busaidyah, Director-General of Family Development at the Ministry of Social Development, emphasised that this platform will contribute to the economic and social empowerment of participating families. It will also facilitate communication between these families and potential customers.

Al Busaidyah added that the ‘Maksab’ platform aims to provide smart sales outlets for the products of social security and limited-income families. It creates a digital marketplace within Oman and abroad, generating revenues for these families.

To benefit from the platform, eligible families must register and comply with the principles and conditions established by the competent authorities. This involves diversifying and preparing products according to the required standards, aligning with the principles of sustainable economic and social development in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr Ahmed bin Sulayem al Junaibi, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the World Network for Information Technology Solutions, expressed support for the ministry’s efforts in improving the conditions of these families. He also highlighted the platform’s role in promoting healthy competition and facilitating the faster and easier availability of local products.

The Maksab platform caters to local home project owners, individuals, institutional consumers, and delivery companies. However, it imposes certain conditions, including ensuring good packaging, possessing valid home licenses approved by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, maintaining product quality, and providing food safety guarantees.