Oman’s regions receive more than 274,000 fruit tree saplings

More than 274,000 saplings of fruit and wild trees have been distributed across Oman’s regions. This was reported by Times of Oman, a partner of TV BRICS.

The saplings will be planted to expand green spaces, increase fruit production, conserve natural resources and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

The saplings grown are of the most sought-after fruit crops, including mangoes, Omani lemons, figs, grapes, guavas, pomegranates, bananas, and cider apples.

The bulk of the planting material was allocated to commercial farms, which received over 169,000 saplings. A further 16,000 saplings were distributed among farmers, whilst the remainder went to investors, government bodies and non-governmental organisations.

As well as supporting agriculture, the programme has contributed to the development of agricultural science. As part of the programme, fruit crop gene banks have been expanded, laboratory research has been improved, and projects have been implemented to enhance plant cultivation techniques, improve the quality of seedlings and preserve the genetic diversity of saplings.

It is expected that in the coming years, the planted trees will yield more than 10,000 tonnes of fruit with a total value of almost US$11.1 million.

The project will also bring environmental benefits. According to experts’ estimates, the trees will be able to absorb around 8,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, which will help mitigate the effects of climate change. Expanding green spaces will help slow down the process of desertification.

The programme was implemented by the state-owned energy company in partnership with Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, as well as the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Fund.

The energy company emphasised that the programme forms part of its sustainable development strategy and represents a successful national model of partnership between the public and private sectors. Since its launch, more than 60 contracts have been signed with small and medium-sized enterprises worth around US$899 904, and thousands of working hours have been provided for Omani citizens.