Under the auspices of His Excellency Dr. Saud bin Hamoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, and in collaboration with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), a project aimed at enhancing the capabilities of coastal women in small-scale invertebrate fishing has been initiated in the Sultanate of Oman.
The project, named “Mina,” was officially launched during a workshop focusing on empowering coastal women. It is designed to empower a group of coastal women engaged in the manufacturing of marine products, enhancing their access to resources, assets, services, technologies, and economic opportunities. This initiative aims to improve their income and livelihoods.
The workshop aimed to foster discussions on the role of women in the fisheries sector in Oman, raise awareness among stakeholders about the role of women, study the current and future needs of women’s organizations specialized in coastal women, enhance discussions on current and future collaborations between coastal women, relevant government entities, the private sector, supporters, and partners. It also aimed to develop activities related to the work of women’s groups in the fishing sector and empower coastal women working in the field of invertebrate fishing.
Hassana bint Mohammed Al Harthy, FAO Assistant Representative in Oman, stated, “The fisheries sector in the Middle East and North Africa plays a crucial role in achieving food security and alleviating poverty. Despite various challenges, small-scale fisheries in this region exhibit high growth potential. More than 90% of Oman’s fisheries are small-scale, and a social and economic survey conducted by FAO in collaboration with the ministry in 2019 revealed the profitability and good economic performance of artisanal fisheries, reflecting effective management and abundant marine resources in the country. The survey highlighted that the value of production was approximately OMR 240 million, with an average landing value of 700 baisas per kilogram.”
She emphasized the vital role played by coastal women in fishing activities along the entire coast, showcasing the key role they play in the success of small-scale fisheries.
Mariam bint Mohammed Al Shizania, Head of the Blue Economy Department at the Directorate General of Fisheries Development, noted the ministry’s keen interest in coastal women. Through organizing workshops and training courses in various fields, the ministry aims to transfer the necessary skills and experiences to empower and develop the contributions and capabilities of coastal women in the fisheries sector in Oman.
The “Mina” project is a pivotal initiative, focusing on the development and empowerment of coastal women in the Al Wusta Governorate and other coastal regions in Oman. The project emphasizes capacity-building through specialized training courses conducted by experts and technicians from the ministry, coupled with external expertise. Over 80 women have already been trained to manage small projects in the manufacturing of seafood products.
This project marks a significant step toward sustainable development, showcasing the commitment of Oman to inclusivity and empowerment in its fisheries sector. The “Mina” project not only empowers women economically but also contributes to the overall growth and prosperity of coastal communities.
