In a bid to fortify the fisheries sector, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources (MAFWR) of Oman has disclosed plans to launch five new aquaculture projects within the current year.

Key Projects on the Horizon

Dr. Issa Mohammed al Farsi, Director of Fish Farming Development Department at MAFWR, announced the eagerly anticipated initiatives for 2024. Among these, the second phase of the abalone aquaculture project in Mirbat, Dhofar governorate, and a whiteleg shrimp venture in Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, South Sharqiyah, stand out prominently.

In addition to the aforementioned flagship ventures, MAFWR is set to kickstart projects in Barka, South Batinah, alongside Marine Fin Fish projects in Khasab (Musandam governorate) and Seeb (Muscat governorate).

Previous Successes Pave the Way

The announcement comes on the heels of the successful launch of six shrimp farming projects across various governorates in 2023. These projects, representing a total investment of OMR 134.087 million (USD 348.9 million), have significantly contributed to Oman’s aquaculture landscape.

South Sharqiyah, renowned for its expansive coastline, has emerged as a focal point for shrimp farming endeavors, hosting the majority of the projects initiated in 2023.

Socioeconomic Impact

Dr. Farsi underscored the profound socioeconomic impact of these ventures, emphasizing their role in creating new income streams for local communities. The direct sale of produce by local citizens, transport operators, and small to medium enterprise owners, both domestically and through exports, has injected vitality into local markets and economies.