MUSCAT: A number of rare and unique varieties of honey will be the cynosure at the third Oman-Afro Honey Fest to be held under the auspices of Dr Saud bin Hamoud al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, from September 18 to 21 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC).
Combining an international scientific conference, a trade exhibition, competitions and various activities, the event aims to enhance the global status of bees and their role in environmental balance, addressing the effects of climate change on bees, besides organising several brainstorming sessions to spread awareness on the importance of preserving the creatures worldwide.
The third Oman-Afro Honey Fest brings together manufacturers, distributors, installers, finance providers, service providers, facility managers and project developers towards engaging in educative as well a informative sessions.
While the trade exhibition will showcase the latest technologies and products in beekeeping and honey production, the scientific conference will be a platform for experts, researchers, professors, specialists and beekeepers to exchange expertise, focusing on future visions for bee preservation.
"The Honey Fest is expected to bolster Oman’s position as a leading centre for sustainable agriculture, contributing to the sustainability of ecosystems and global food security," a spokesperson from the ministry said.
While the ministry will showcase its initiatives and strategies in promoting biodiversity and supporting sustainable agricultural development, the event will explore critical issues such as bee health, honey production and sustainable beekeeping practices.
The festival that brings together beekeepers, researchers and experts from across the globe will also host various competitions to promote innovation in this sector.
Besides the scientific conference and workshops, a trade show, an auction of beehive products, a bee fashion show collection, and various competitions in honey, liquid honey, crystallised honey, beeswax, pollen, propolis,and cosmetics from beehive products are parts of the event.
The Oman-Afro Honey Fest is expected to serve as a key platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration, highlighting the importance of bees in global ecosystems and agricultural industries.
"With this vital event, Oman is cementing its role as a leading centre for sustainable agriculture and supports the sustainability of ecosystems and global food security."
The Honey Fest is considered a milestone in the global agricultural and environmental calendar, given the importance of bees in maintaining biodiversity.
The event not only raises awareness about the role of bees, but also contributes to innovation and progress in the beekeeping industry.
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