SALALAH: The Salalah Agricultural Plain, spanning approximately 5,000 acres, exemplifies economic sustainability and food security in the Sultanate of Oman by merging traditional and modern farming techniques. Known for its annual seasonal rainfall of about 100 mm during the khareef season, the plain benefits from enhanced soil fertility and supports a variety of crops vital to the region's economy. Eng Fael bin Mohammed al Jahfali, Assistant Director-General for Agriculture and Water Resources in Dhofar Governorate, highlighted the plain's role in bolstering the economy through significant agricultural production. Key outputs include 4,928 tonnes of bananas annually, comprising 15.3 per cent of the plain’s fruit yield and exported to Gulf markets. Additionally, it produces 7,000 tonnes of coconut, which is utilised in food manufacturing, cosmetics, and body care products. The Salalah Agricultural Plain also serves as a major tourist attraction during khareef, drawing visitors to its lush coconut farms and fresh fruit kiosks. The plain cultivates various crops, including mangoes, citrus fruits, and vegetables, alongside aromatic and medicinal plants suited to its humid climate. Despite its successes, the plain faces challenges such as mountainous terrain, limited water resources, and urban sprawl. To address these, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources is promoting modern agricultural techniques, including drip irrigation, hydroponics, greenhouse farming, and solar-powered systems. Programmes supporting turmeric, ginger, and Arabic coffee cultivation, along with organic farming, are also underway. Farmers like Abdullah bin Mohammed al Shanfari are adopting greenhouse farming to improve crop production in controlled environments. This method uses plastic or glass structures to shield crops from harsh weather, with efficient systems for irrigation, fertilisation and harvesting. Crops such as herbs, tomatoes, and peppers thrive under this method. Meanwhile, Alawi bin Abdullah al Muqbil emphasised Salalah's agricultural history, marked by rain-fed farming and terrace cultivation, adapting to climatic changes and urban expansion. Traditional crops like barley, wheat and corn continue to sustain the region despite evolving farming practices. The Salalah Agricultural Plain stands as a testament to the Sultanate of Oman’s efforts in sustainable agriculture and economic resilience. — ONA
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