Oman Hosts Inaugural Sustainable Food Security Forum: Innovation and Capacity Building
Muscat, Oman – The Sultanate recently hosted the prestigious Sustainable Food Security Forum, themed “Innovation in Agriculture, Fisheries, and Aquaculture.” This pivotal event underscored practical and innovative solutions to enhance productivity and efficiency across these vital sectors, aligning with Oman’s strategic vision for a diversified and sustainable economy by 2040.
Key Themes and Objectives
The forum focused on four primary themes: innovation in agricultural sustainability, sustainable fisheries development, water resource management, and capacity building alongside innovation and entrepreneurship support. Organized under the auspices of Eng. Yaqoub Khalfan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources for Fisheries, the event highlighted national efforts to bolster food security through advanced technology and sustainable practices.
Innovations and Initiatives
Running parallel to the forum, an Innovation in Food Security Exhibition showcased over 30 pioneering projects by students, graduates, and startups. The event featured advisory sessions with specialized experts and highlighted national success stories, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships and investments in enhancing Oman’s food security framework.
Future Directions
Oman’s commitment to food security is evident through various initiatives, including new land deals for agricultural development and investments in digital technologies like precision farming and smart fisheries management. These efforts aim not only to reduce dependence on food imports but also to position Oman as a leader in sustainable food systems, capable of exporting high-quality products regionally and globally.
Collaboration and Dialogue
The forum brought together speakers, academics, and specialists from government and private entities, fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange. This collaborative approach is crucial for supporting national initiatives, attracting investments, and enhancing Oman’s food security for future generations.
Conclusion
As Oman continues to innovate and invest in sustainable food systems, the Sustainable Food Security Forum represents a significant step towards achieving its vision of economic diversification and environmental sustainability. Through such initiatives, Oman is poised to become a model for food security in the region.
Team V.3-UAE