Mango production project launched in Barka to boost food security

Muscat: A project to increase mango production is being implemented in South Al Batinah Governorate with the aim of enhancing food security and developing the agricultural sector within the framework of expanding fruit cultivation and supporting local production.

 The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources continues to implement its initiatives aimed at enhancing food security and developing the agricultural sector. It is currently working on a project to increase mango production in the Wilayat of Barka, South Al Batinah Governorate, as part of its efforts to expand fruit cultivation and support local production.

Engineer Abdullah bin Saif Al Saidi, Director of the Agricultural Development Department in South Al Batinah Governorate, explained that the mango production increase project in Barka is part of the Ministry's efforts to strengthen the food security system and support the expansion of economically viable crops. 

He noted that the project is being implemented on three agricultural plots granted usufruct rights, in cooperation with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning. The area planted with mangoes in the Wilayat has exceeded 4,000 acres, encompassing more than 40,000 trees.

Al Saidi added that the first harvest from the project is expected to begin in 2027. He explained that seedlings were provided through agricultural research centers under a subsidy system, in addition to importing selected varieties from abroad to ensure the quality and diversity of the produce.

 Al Saidi emphasized that the project relies on the application of modern irrigation systems, including fountain irrigation, which contributes to increasing the efficiency of water resource use and achieving higher productivity.

Al Saidi explained that these projects are managed by Omani expertise and under the direct supervision of Omani investors, while the Ministry plays a supervisory and technical role by providing the necessary support, monitoring the implementation phases, and coordinating with relevant authorities.

He concluded his statement by affirming that the project will contribute to enhancing self-sufficiency in fruits, supplying the local market with high-quality agricultural products, and supporting sustainable agricultural development in the Sultanate of Oman.