Salalah: A three-day workshop aimed at managing the invasive growth of parthenium weed in the Dhofar Governorate commenced today in Salalah. Organized by Dhofar Municipality, the workshop gathers experts and specialists from both the Sultanate of Oman and international locations.
The workshop delves into the latest research findings and practical experiments related to controlling the invasive growth of the weed, both locally and globally.
Additionally, it examines ways to enhance international collaboration to bolster the Sultanate of Oman's initiatives in building national capacities and developing comprehensive environmental programs in this area.
The opening ceremony took place under the patronage of Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality.
During the opening ceremony, a visual presentation was showcased, highlighting national efforts to tackle the challenges posed by the growth of parthenium weed and the global risks associated with its spread. The presentation reviewed the experience of Dhofar Governorate in implementing parthenium weed control programs from 2020 to 2025.
Following the presentation, two working papers were presented. The first, titled "Regional Research Reports: Oman and the Middle East," focused on the effects of parthenium on natural pastures in Dhofar Governorate. The second paper discussed the role of environmentally friendly allelopathic chemistry in managing the growth and spread of parthenium.
The second day will feature panel discussions regarding the biological and ecological characteristics of the parthenium weed, along with reports on its presence in three regions: "India and South Asia," "Australia and the Pacific," and "Africa and the Middle East."
On the third day of the workshop, three discussion panels will be held, focusing on biological control, non-biological control, and best practices in the Sultanate of Oman.
After the opening ceremony, Al Ghassani congratulated the speakers and the departments that contributed to the success of the event.
