Mahdha: Sidr honey production in the Wilayat of Mahdha in Al Buraimi Governorate exceeded 5 tonnes in this year. There are presently 45 beekeepers and 2,985 beehives according to the statistics of the Directorate-General of Agricultural Water Resources in Al Buraimi Governorate.
Engineer Mohammed bin Salem al Kaabi, Director of the Department of Agricultural and Water Resources in the Wilayat of Mahdha, said that the raising honey bees is one of the oldest professions in the Sultanate of Oman and is a main sources of income for many families in Al Buraimi Governorate. It contributes to supporting the national economy by meeting the local market’s need for local honey while the surplus is exported.
He added that Al Buraimi Governorate recently witnessed excessive rainfall which affected the vegetation cover and delayed the harvesting of honey this year.
Al Kaabi explained that there are two types of honey bees in the Wilayat of Mahdha. The first type is locally known as Abu Tuwaiq which lives in mountain caves. This type of bee produces high-quality honey type which is more expensive than other types due to the low production of the hive on the one hand and the small number of hives of this type on the other hand. The second type is known as the domesticated bees which are characterized by their small size and yellow colour. It is raised inside wooden hives using modern methods. These bees are peaceful and they are known for their high production besides being resistant to most pests and diseases. It is generally highly efficient in collecting and storing nectar and pollen and is resistant to weather conditions, especially high temperatures.
The Directorate of Agricultural and Water Resources in the Wilayat of Mahdha provides all needed support to beekeepers including technical support, tools and equipment needed by beekeepers needed to raise and multiply bees. Besides, it carries out awareness programmes, seminars and lectures for beekeepers on the correct methods of raising and multiplying Omani bees. — ONA
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