Oman To Establish Saham Agricultural City To Strengthen Food Security
Oman has announced plans to build Saham Agricultural City, a significant step in its food security initiative. This innovative project will encompass an area of 65 sq km, with a focus on blending agricultural development and urban planning. The majority of the area, approximately 70 percent, will be dedicated to agricultural pursuits, while the remaining 30 percent will focus on urban development. This initiative is part of Oman's broader strategy to enhance food security and utilise advanced technologies in agriculture.
The introduction of Saham Agricultural City will bring state-of-the-art agricultural methods to the forefront, including hydroponics, aeroponics, and fish farming. These methods are expected to produce enough food to feed 25,000 people annually. Surbana Jurong Group, a Singaporean government-owned consultancy firm specialising in infrastructure and urban developments, presented the master plan for the city, highlighting its innovative approach towards sustainable agriculture and urban planning.
While the specific cost and construction start date for Saham Agricultural City remain undisclosed, the project is a key component of Oman's extensive food security strategy. In March 2024, Dr. Saud bin Hamoud Al Habsi, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, revealed that the sultanate is working on 137 food projects, boasting a total investment of OMR1.6 billion ($4.2 billion). These projects, including the development of agricultural cities and integrated agricultural plans, aim to resolve land issues and enhance the nation's food production capabilities.
Oman's commitment to agriculture and food security is part of its broader economic strategy. With a population of around 4.5 million people, Oman is poised to achieve a GDP of $108.9 billion this year, a slight decrease from $109.1 billion in 2023. The GDP per capita is estimated to be $20,913 in 2024. These economic indicators reflect the nation's ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and invest in sustainable development projects like Saham Agricultural City.
The establishment of Saham Agricultural City represents a significant step forward in Oman's journey towards achieving food security and enhancing its agricultural sector through innovative technologies. This project, along with the broader strategy of investing in food projects, underscores the sultanate's commitment to sustainable development and resilience in the face of global challenges.
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