Sohar:The Rural Women Forum and Exhibition has commenced in the Wilayat of Sohar, organized by the Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in North Al Batinah Governorate. This three-day event involves participation from female entrepreneurs in rural products across various wilayats of the governorate.
According to Oman News Agency, the exhibition was inaugurated by Eng. Yaqoub Khalfan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources for Fisheries, alongside several officials. Eng. Nasser Ali Al Marshoudi, Director General of Agricultural, Fisheries, and Water Resources in North Al Batinah, highlighted the Ministry’s dedication to empowering rural women as key partners in food security and economic development. The Ministry has initiated programs such as the "Program to Empower 1,500 Rural Women in North Al Batinah Governorate," enhancing their marketing skills and expanding project opportunities in local markets.
The Ministry's initiatives include financial support, training, and establishing a modern productive culture that focuses on improving product standards and adopting sustainable practices. The forum and exhibition provide a platform to enhance rural women's economic engagement and foster partnerships with private sector institutions, which support rural projects through corporate social responsibility and cooperation agreements.
The event presented specialized working papers on the roles of government and private institutions in supporting rural women. These papers discussed expertise sharing, improving rural product quality, and successful entrepreneurial experiences. Additionally, the Rural Products Exhibition showcased 42 diverse products across 40 corners, reflecting the skills of rural women in meeting market demands.
The forum also facilitated the signing of two cooperation agreements with the private sector to further support rural women's projects.
