A new RO10mn Abalone aquaculture fishery project in the Wilayat of Mirbat in the Governorate of Dhofar will push the Sultanate deeper into the global food chain supply while assisting in fortifying the food security plan of the country.

A marine resource that is often dubbed ‘White Gold’ and with proven health and nutritional value, Abalone (locally known as ‘Safaleh’), has a deep-rooted history in the Sultanate, with fishermen harvesting what is globally recognised as the highest-grade of the gastropod mollusc.

The project, undertaken by Oman Aquaculture Company, has a production capacity of 600 tonnes per annum. This new project will aim to maintain a healthy stock of Abalone in the sea stretch that has been witnessing a dwindling population, with harvest governing around the 50-55 tonnes range.

The project’s opening ceremony was held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Marwan Turki Al Said, the Governor of Dhofar; and was attended by Dr. Saud Hamoud Al Habsi, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources; Sheikh Mustahail Al Ma’ashani, Advisor at the Diwan of Royal Court, and officials from the public and private sectors.

A part and parcel of the Ministry’s plans to encourage private sector companies to take up investment diversification in the field of food security, this landmark project will be among the value-added ventures that realise the Ministry’s vision for fish farming.

It will also serve the local community and provides jobs for Omani youth, Dr. Al Habsi added.

The project covers an area of 37,240 sq.m (with a construction area of 8,900 sq.m) and comprises a set of facilities and services that contribute to the production of abalone at international standards.

Abalone harvests were as high at 149 tonnes in 2011 after its fishing was reopened after a three-year cessation of harvest, sale, and exports.