Fisheries development project

Evaluation covered the period 4/82-4/85. The key components of the fisheries program - statistics, extension, research - are on track, although slightly behind schedule because of a shortage of Omani staff resulting from both the pace of development in Oman and from GOM hiring policies. The statistics program has completed a 1-year baseline research study on fish catch and entered catch data into the computer, establishing the basis for a long-term program that can accomodate other biological and economic data collection; Omani staff shortages pose the major constraint to otherwise good prospects for the program. The extension program numbers 5 agents, with centers in the capital region and in Sohar, and has initiated field research on fish and lobster traps (a tested trap is being marketed) and on mechanizing boats (equipment is being demonstrated on a limited scale). Additional field research is being planned for multi-line trolling, multi-fishery vessels, and boat safety training, but this program is also constrained by shortage of Omani staff. The research program staff is growing, and the basic research on sardine, lobster, and abalone biology underway for the past year will be continued for an additional four at the Marine Fisheries Science Center. GOM capital investments in project research have exceeded those planned, setting back the arrival of TA researchers, but creating a stronger project. Also, an expatriate advisor has begun training 12 on-board observers who will accompany foreign and Omani commercial vessels to gather data. Based on experience gained in assessing fish marketing potential, the GOM has become aware of the need for a marketing strategy, a vital element originally missing from the project due to the lack of information with which to design a strategy. The project did anticipate the need for a marketing thrust, however, and provided TA in this area, and a marketing program is being prepared by an advisor. The project shows that, where data for a country are lacking in many key areas, it is wise to implement parts of a project that can be fully designed while gathering information needed to design the missing elements. Action decisions are to: (1) extend the PACD to 4/89; (2) enter into policy dialogue with GOM officials and agree to revisions aimed at achieving subproject goals; (3) help the GOM modify its contract with TA providers in accordance with these revisions; and (4) urge the GOM to accelerate hiring of fisheries staff.