Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources launched a festival in Al Wusta on Monday focused on raising awareness and conservation of shrimp species. The four-day event, called Shrimp al Wusta 2024, aims to educate fishermen on sustainable shrimp fishing practices.
Dr Ali bin Abdullah al Alawi, Director General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Al Wusta, emphasised the festival’s importance in showcasing shrimp as a key economic resource for the governorate. He also highlighted the ministry’s efforts in educating the fishing community on methods to preserve shrimp stocks.
Al Wusta accounts for 74% of Oman’s total shrimp production, making it a critical area for the country’s fishing industry.
Festival activities include screening of a documentary on traditional shrimp fishing and demonstrations on the use of nets. Local fishermen are displaying the marine art known as ‘tsubeel’, while an exhibition featuring 20 booths of both government and private entities are showcasing the latest shrimp farming techniques and investment opportunities in the sector.