The fisheries of Oman: A situation analysis

Abstract

This research paper presents a situation analysis of artisanal fishermen on the Batinah coast of Oman, conducted within the scope of a project that had a broader mandate on training needs assessment (TNA). The collection of data followed a structured survey approach where the questionnaires were administered to 1934 fishermen and were analyzed by a mixed method approach. The findings were triangulated-from information gained from the observations of fishermen and the discussions held with other stakeholders. The research found that the majority of fishermen on the Batinah coast were not appropriately educated and trained. Most of them followed irregular routines, earned little money from fishing, had low savings, faced financial constraints, and lacked knowhow of modern fishing techniques and post-harvest dealings. The fishermen's performance over several key variables revealed a need for a consolidated marine policy that takes into consideration a host of issues related to the governance of artisanal fisheries and its sustainability and contribution to the economic activities in Oman.