Addis ababa: The Sultanate of Oman has presented its progress in food and nutrition security indicators at the ministerial session of the 2nd UN Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4) in Ethiopia, highlighting advancements made since the 2021 Food Systems Summit.
According to Oman News Agency, Dr. Saud bin Hamoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, stated that the Sultanate of Oman has achieved significant improvements across multiple food and nutrition security metrics. “The ministry has launched several strategies-with others in development-to enhance domestic production, diversify supply chains, ensure sustainable use of natural resources, and improve nutrition while combating malnutrition,” he said. “Key initiatives include the Food Security Strategy, National Nutrition Strategy, National Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Strategy, Environment and Natural Resources Strategy, and the Genetic Diversity Strategy for Local Livestock.”
He noted that Oman ranked third among Arab countries and 35th globally in the 2022 Global Food Security Index, while securing the 54th position in the 2024 Environmental Performance Index-outperforming many regional peers. These achievements reflect Oman’s ongoing efforts in environmental protection, sustainability promotion, pollution reduction, and efficient natural resource management.
Al Habsi also highlighted that Oman received WHO certification for eliminating artificial trans fats from its food products, becoming one of only nine countries worldwide-and the second in the Arab world-to achieve this milestone. This recognition underscores Oman’s commitment to improving quality of life, advancing preventive healthcare, and enhancing public health indicators.
The minister emphasized the government’s prioritization of water resource conservation through precautionary measures to safeguard against external pressures and ensure sustainability for future generations. Oman is working to balance water allocation across sectors while accounting for environmental needs, he added.
The participation at UNFSS+4 demonstrates Oman’s proactive engagement in global food security dialogues while implementing national policies aligned with both the Oman Vision 2040 development framework and UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).