MUSCAT : The day aims to raise awareness of the vital role bees and other pollinators play in preserving ecosystems, ensuring food security, and supporting sustainable development.

World Bee Day serves as a global call to action to promote measures to protect bees and other pollinators, which directly contribute to addressing challenges related to global food supplies and contributing to their elimination, especially in developing countries.

The Sultanate of Oman has paid great attention to the beekeeping sector through the efforts of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, which has implemented numerous research, development programmes and projects in various governorates. Among these initiatives is the organisation of two annual honey markets – in mid-year and in December – in cooperation with the private sector. The goal is to enhance food security, encourage beekeepers to improve the quality of their products, and achieve sustainable economic returns.

To support natural habitats and mitigate the impact of environmental degradation, the Ministry has undertaken afforestation projects featuring the Australian acacia tree, known for its benefits to bees. These trees have been planted in several agricultural and pastoral zones to counteract the effects of drought, desertification, and overgrazing, thereby boosting honey production during periods of ecological stress.

The Ministry’s interest also includes other bee products, such as wax, royal jelly, and pollen. These promising products contribute to fostering an entrepreneurial culture among beekeepers and open up new horizons for them in the fields of manufacturing industries and public health.

According to 2024 statistics, Oman recorded 5,352 beekeepers and 178,069 beehives, producing 765,053 kilograms of honey—a significant increase from the previous year’s production of 623,313 kilograms from 145,485 hives. North Al Sharqiyah Governorate led honey production with approximately 263,000 kilograms, followed by Al Dakhiliyah Governorate with around 177,000 kilograms.

These figures highlight the extent of growth witnessed by the sector thanks to continuous government support and beekeepers’ awareness of the importance of developing beekeeping and production methods.

The Sultanate of Oman affirms its ongoing commitment to preserving the environment, enhancing biodiversity, and achieving food security by supporting the beekeeping sector as an important economic driver and a sustainable source of employment and production in rural communities.

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