Some child-related issues need to be given more attention by the government of Oman to maintain the positive momentum, said Unicef's representative in Oman. Speaking to Times of Oman, Osama Makkawi Khogali said that these issues include early childhood education (ECE) and some health-related matters.

According to Makkawi, Oman's wheat flour fortification programme, launched in 1993, has been effective in reducing anaemia and spina bifida rates significantly. The Vitamin A programme has also been a success.

However, Makkawi said that further steps need to be taken to curb iodine deficiency disorders.

"Iodine deficiency disorders are under control, but the legislation requires rigorous implementation and monitoring as Oman still needs to achieve sustained, universal coverage by iodised salt," he added.