Al-Hai inspects major environmental project to restore vegetation cover
. . . as Kuwait advances desert rehabilitation with four million native seedlings in Khubari Al-Awazem Reserve
Director of the Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources, Salem Al-Hai, went on a field inspection tour of the Khubari Al-Awazem Reserve, accompanied by members of the Advisory Council of the United Nations Committee and technical advisers from Kuwait’s liaison office, to review progress on a major project aimed at rehabilitating the reserve’s vegetation cover.
The visit was part of Kuwait’s broader efforts to protect the terrestrial environment and restore degraded ecosystems. During the tour officials were briefed on the latest stages of implementation and the environmental impact of the project, which is considered one of the country’s key national environmental initiatives.
The project seeks to plant around four million seedlings of indigenous wild plants across an estimated area of 17 square kilometers within the reserve, reports Al-Rai daily.
Its objectives include restoring natural vegetation, curbing desertification, improving soil quality, and creating a suitable habitat for the return of native wildlife species.
This is in addition to restoring plant cover, the initiative includes the establishment of four new protected areas. It also encompasses afforestation and environmental rehabilitation programs covering approximately 79.2 square kilometers in several desert locations, using scientific methods tailored to the nature of Kuwait’s arid environment and relying on native plant species adapted to local climatic conditions.
The authority emphasized that the project forms part of Kuwait’s national plan to green and rehabilitate degraded lands, implemented in cooperation with relevant international organizations.
The initiative contributes to enhancing biodiversity, protecting wildlife, supporting ecological balance, and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources.
Officials also noted that the project plays a role in mitigating the effects of climate change, combating desertification, and fulfilling Kuwait’s commitments under international environmental agreements and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Members of the participating delegations commended the progress achieved and the efforts being made, stressing the importance of sustaining such environmental initiatives as a reflection of Kuwait’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development for future generations.
