By Azza Nasser Al Hashami
Adorned by sprawling farms, meandering falajs, and majestic mountain vistas, the quaint village of Afi in the Wilayat of Wadi Al-Ma'awil is undergoing a beautiful transformation, making it an ideal destination for future travellers and tourists coming to South Batinah for adventure and nature immersion.
Steeped in history, Afi is home to several historical treasures, including ancient castles, fortified forts, and venerable mosques, each a witness to the illustrious legacies of eminent imams, sheikhs, and scholars who once lived in the area.
Beyond its architectural marvels, including the storied harats (neighbourhoods) surrounding it, Afi is distinguished by the unwavering commitment of its residents to uphold cleanliness and foster development.
One of the village's recent initiatives is the construction and development of Hujrat Al-Sheikh Walkway, a collective effort embodying the village's spirit of unity as people in the area volunteer to address community needs.
Dating back to ancient times, Hujrat Al-Sheikh stands as a testament to Afi's rich heritage, housing an array of historical and archaeological wonders. Admired for its distinctive architecture, one of its castles features dual falajs coursing through its structure, alongside towering spires offering panoramic views of verdant palm groves and orchards laden with mangoes, bananas, and lemons.
Central to the harat's legacy are three towering tamarind trees, aged over seven centuries, symbolizing resilience and endurance through the ages.
Recognizing the significance of preserving Afi's cultural legacy, concerted efforts have been made by both the community and governmental authorities to restore and showcase these landmarks as vibrant tourist attractions. The ongoing Hujrat Al-Sheikh Walkway Project stands as a testament to this collaborative spirit.
A joint initiative between the South Al Batinah Governor's Office and the Wadi Al-Ma'awil Municipality Department, the project commenced in December 2023 and is poised for completion in April 2024. With its aim to connect three key archaeological sites—Hujrat Al-Sheikh, Al-Safala Fort, and Beit Al-Ghasham Museum—the walkway promises to further enrich Afi's cultural offering while giving visitors a glimpse of its storied past.
As the final touches are being put in place, the anticipation for the project's unveiling is palpable, underscoring Afi's enduring commitment to preserving its heritage and fostering a vibrant future for generations to come.
Mr. Saud bin Saeed bin Hilal Al-Ma'awali, a member of the Municipal Council in Wadi Al-Ma'awil Wilayat, describes the new walkway project stretching from Hujrat Al-Sheikh to Al-Safala Fort, adorned with flat stone and lighting. This section spans 850 meters in length and two to three meters in width. Conversely, the stretch from Al-Safala Fort to Beit Al-Ghasham Museum already has a paved street, requiring only 400 meters of additional lighting.
The primary aim of this initiative is to link archaeological sites via the walkway, symbolically connecting three significant historical landmarks. By doing so, it aims to enrich the cultural heritage and elevate these sites into prominent tourist destinations. Visitors will not only delve into the region's rich history but also savour its scenic beauty. The influx of tourism will provide recreational and educational opportunities for tourists and commercial avenues for residents by showcasing and selling local products.
Infrastructure poses a notable challenge, necessitating seamless integration of the walkway with the natural landscape, which may present logistical and technical hurdles for the work team. Prioritizing safety standards and the preservation of archaeological sites remains paramount.
Regarding financial considerations, estimating the project's cost remains tricky due to incomplete lighting. Nonetheless, the project is nearing completion, with citizens already frequenting the walkway.
Looking ahead, the project promises long-term economic development and sustainability, attracting tourists and investors, and fostering growth in local businesses. Furthermore, it holds the potential to contribute to the overall development of the region while aligning with environmentally friendly and heritage-preserving practices.
The Hujrat Al-Sheikh Walkway Project stands as a significant asset to Afi village and the Wilayat at large. It not only conserves and celebrates cultural heritage but also spurs economic growth and tourism. Gratitude is owed to those involved in this visionary project, bridging the past and the future. As the project nears fruition, all stakeholders are encouraged to rally behind, support, and celebrate this endeavour.
Moreover, the walkway presents lucrative investment opportunities with diverse dimensions. Integrating solar energy-saving features for nighttime illumination and incorporating electronic panels with historical information offer avenues for investors to innovate and enrich the visitor experience, aligning with modern technological trends.
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