MUSCAT: The Food Security Lab 2024, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, concluded on Thursday, October 17, 2024, with authorities unveiling 41 investment projects valued at over RO 45 million while announcing further 66 investment opportunities. The lab also introduced 24 enabling initiatives to support projects in food security, develop logistics services, and launch the “Tharawat” and “Zad” platforms.
The closing ceremony was held under the auspices of Eng Said bin Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, in the presence of ministers, undersecretaries, members of the State Council and Shura Council, as well as representatives from companies in the agriculture, fisheries, water resources, and logistics sectors.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning signed 177 agreements in the food security sector with an investment value exceeding RO 32.3 million, covering an area of more than 13.7 thousand acres. Additionally, 14 investment contracts worth over RO 36.8 million were signed in the fisheries sector.
A memorandum of understanding was also signed between Oman Flour Mills Company and Najd Agricultural Development Company to establish a collaborative framework aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural production of millet and other high-nutrient grains in Oman to bolster national food security.
Furthermore, a usufruct agreement was signed between Oman Flour Mills Company and the Omran Group, with Haitham bin Mohammed Al Fannah, CEO of Oman Flour Mills, signing on behalf of the company. The projects will incorporate advanced technology in storage systems, reflecting a commitment to innovation and operational efficiency to enhance the food sector in Oman.
The ceremony also marked the launch of the Advanced Boats Initiative, which aims to improve and enhance artisanal fishing by introducing new technologies and advanced fishing boats measuring 10 to 14 meters, with high technical specifications, enabling Omani fishermen to venture into various fishing zones within the territorial waters up to 200 nautical miles.
The Food Security Lab 2024 featured a two-week programme of activities and discussion sessions aimed at attracting investments in food security sectors, with a focus on local added value and digital transformation.
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