MUSCAT – The meeting focused on reviewing the updated initiative document, incorporating amendments proposed by government bodies, private sector stakeholders, civil society organizations, and businesses. The initiative seeks to protect ecosystems, combat desertification and drought, and improve the productivity of natural pastures in line with national priorities.

Key elements of the document include transitioning the livestock sector from a consumer of environmental resources to a productive and sustainable sector, supporting Oman’s Environmental Strategy, Oman Vision 2040, and the country’s pledge to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The initiative is positioned as both an environmental and economic solution, aiming to raise the income of livestock owners through sustainable practices that also benefit pastoral communities. The first phase of implementation is scheduled for 2026 to 2030 in the wilayats of Dhalkut and Rakhyut in Dhofar. It will promote foreign investment in industries related to animal products and rain-fed agriculture, particularly for high-value crops that can leverage Dhofar’s unique seasonal climate during its three-month monsoon period.

Launched on the sidelines of the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in December 2024, the initiative represents a multi-stakeholder effort. Partners include the Environment Authority, the Global Green Growth Institute, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, the Office of the Governor of Dhofar, the Oman Investment Authority, Dhofar University, and the Sec