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Oman’s South Batinah Governorate unveils strategic vision for sustainable development

South Al Batinah Governorate is charting a bold path toward sustainable development with a newly formulated strategy that aims to boost the region's economic, social, and environmental growth.

Oman News Agency

info@thearabianstories.com

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Muscat – The strategy, which involves input from a wide range of stakeholders, including government entities, private institutions, and local individuals, is aligned with the broader objectives of Oman Vision 2040. The plan seeks to position the governorate as a key player in the Sultanate’s long-term development.

Speaking to Oman News Agency, H.E. Eng. Masoud bin Saeed Al Hashemi, Governor of South Al Batinah, emphasized the strategic vision that underpins the governorate’s future. With a unique geographical location, abundant natural resources, and diverse landscapes, South Al Batinah is poised to become a major hub for comprehensive development in Oman.

The strategy focuses on three main axes: communication, excellence, and diversity. Each axis outlines key objectives that include transforming the governorate into a regional center for data centers and e-commerce, expanding its logistics infrastructure, and enhancing the overall business environment. These initiatives are aimed at attracting foreign investments, developing advanced digital infrastructure, and fostering innovation.

“We want to create a resilient and dynamic ecosystem, one that offers world-class services, fosters entrepreneurship, and enhances the quality of life for residents,” said His Excellency Al Hashemi. “The governorate will also become a national center for sports excellence and will focus on hosting international sporting events to elevate South Al Batinah’s reputation as a top-tier tourist and entertainment destination.”

The agricultural and fisheries sectors are seen as critical areas for growth. South Al Batinah’s ports – Barka and Al Musannah, are key to unlocking investment in these industries. Barka Port alone is expected to attract an investment of RO 50 million, while Al Musannah Port holds significant potential for future development. The region is also focused on supporting its vibrant artisanal fishing community, which includes approximately 3,388 fishermen and 1,647 fishing boats.

In addition to agriculture and fisheries, tourism plays a central role in the governorate’s strategy. South Al Batinah boasts a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, including towering mountains, pristine coastlines, heritage landmarks, and archaeological sites like Al Rustaq Fort and the Imam Ahmed bin Saeed Mosque. Preservation efforts are underway to maintain these heritage sites, and infrastructure projects, including resorts and visitor centers, are being developed to boost the tourism sector.

South Al Batinah is also focused on improving critical infrastructure, including healthcare, education, water supply, and transportation. Several healthcare facilities, such as Wadi Bani Ghafir Hospital and health complexes in Barka and Nakhal, are being expanded to meet growing demand. The governorate is also working closely with the Ministry of Health to raise awareness about public health challenges and expand healthcare access.

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On the education front, the governorate is strengthening its educational infrastructure with new schools and innovation hubs in Barka and Al Awabi. These initiatives aim to provide a nurturing environment for learning and foster a culture of innovation among the youth.

Further projects to develop the region’s roads, waterfronts, and markets are also in the works, particularly in the Wilayats of Wadi Al Maawil, Al Awabi, and Barka. This will ensure that the region remains well-connected and that citizens benefit from improved public services.

The governorate is committed to preserving its natural reserves, such as the Rustaq Wildlife Reserve and the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve. By working with the Environment Authority, South Al Batinah is striving to strike a balance between development and environmental conservation, ensuring that both the region’s natural heritage and its future growth are safeguarded.

An exciting new initiative, the Al Alalan Park project in Jebel Shams, is aimed at enhancing environmental diversity while promoting sustainable tourism and raising environmental awareness among citizens.

South Al Batinah is also focused on fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation. The Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development has been instrumental in establishing a business center and incubators in the governorate to support local entrepreneurs. The center offers specialized consultations, training programs, and guidance on using emerging technologies like artificial intelligence to scale small businesses. The governorate is also working to simplify business operations for entrepreneurs through resources like a comprehensive guide for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The governorate’s strategic initiatives are fully aligned with the national goals of Oman Vision 2040, which seeks to create a diversified, knowledge-based economy and improve the standard of living for Oman’s citizens. With strong partnerships between the public and private sectors, and a clear focus on sustainability, innovation, and social well-being, South Al Batinah is poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s future.

As H.E. Al Hashemi concluded, “Our strategy is ambitious, but it is grounded in the reality of the governorate’s potential. By harnessing our strengths and collaborating with all stakeholders, we can create a prosperous future for our people, our economy, and our environment.”

The comprehensive approach being adopted in South Al Batinah reflects the governorate’s commitment to sustainable growth and its determination to be a key contributor to the success of Oman Vision 2040.

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