SALALAH, Oman — The Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhofar Governorate has launched the fourth annual Omani honey and turmeric exhibition in Salalah. Scheduled to run through August 31, the event aims to support local honey producers and farmers by facilitating the marketing of their products and highlighting the role of these commodities in the region’s food security.

The exhibition showcases high-quality varieties of Omani honey and turmeric cultivated in the Dhofar mountains. Eng Fael bin Mohammed al Jahfali, Assistant Director General of Agriculture and Livestock in Dhofar, noted that the ministry's efforts to develop the beekeeping sector date back to the early 1980s. The programme focuses on equipping beekeepers with essential skills, promoting best practices in hive management, pest control, and colony expansion.

According to Al Jahfali, these initiatives have contributed to a significant increase in natural honey production, raising the annual output to approximately 50 tonnes. The event’s continued annual presence underscores its importance in supporting local producers and enhancing the visibility of regional agricultural products.

Turmeric, another key product featured at the exhibition, is cultivated by farmers primarily during the khareef season in the mountainous areas of Dhofar. Al Jahfali emphasized that turmeric remains a vital crop in boosting food processing industries, with the cultivated area expanding steadily each year.

The exhibition is part of broader efforts to activate local food industries, support rural families, and encourage small-scale farmers and producers to confidently develop their agricultural projects. By promoting these traditional crops, officials aim to strengthen the rural economy and contribute to the sustainability of local farming communities.