RIYADH,
Saudi Arabia, April 26,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The inaugural Hima
Protected Areas Forum concluded in Riyadh on April
24th, marking a historic moment in the realm of conservation
and sustainable development. Organized by the National Center for
Wildlife (NCW) under the patronage of H.E. Eng. Abdulrahman
AlFadley, Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, the
forum gathered diverse stakeholders from April 21st to 24th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The name "Hima" holds significant meaning in Arabic, referring
to a traditional system of land conservation and management
practiced in many parts of the Arab world for centuries. It
represents a holistic approach to sustainable land use, involving
the protection of natural resources and ecosystems through
community-based stewardship.
Throughout the event, esteemed keynote speakers from
international entities provided invaluable insights into the
critical importance of protecting and preserving our planet's
biodiversity. Dr. Sami Dimasi,
representing the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
Regional Office for West Asia,
emphasized the imperative of transforming protected areas for
sustainable futures. Additionally, Mr. Neville Ash, Director of the UNEP's World
Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC), highlighted
Saudi Arabia's ambitious efforts
in conserving marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Dr. Carlos Manuel Rodriguez, President of the
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), underscored
the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving environmental
protection goals.
During the forum, several significant memoranda of understanding
(MoUs) and agreements were signed on the sidelines, further
cementing commitments to conservation and sustainable development.
Notably, one of the MoUs was inked with the University of Oxford, solidifying collaborative
research and academic partnerships to advance biodiversity
conservation efforts. Additionally, an agreement was reached with
the IUCN, reaffirming commitments to joint initiatives aimed at
enhancing biodiversity conservation, promoting sustainable resource
management, and strengthening environmental protection efforts.
In alignment with the Kingdom's ambitious 30*30 goals, aimed at
preserving 30% of the Kingdom's land and marine areas by 2030, the
forum highlighted Saudi Arabia's
dedication to environmental conservation on a global scale. The
outcomes of the forum include a series of recommendations,
emphasizing community participation in natural heritage protection
practices, diversification of funding sources for reserves,
harmonization of national legislation with international best
practices, acceleration of the declaration of marine and
terrestrial protected areas, and investment in eco-tourism
activities.
In addition to discussions and agreements, the forum featured an
accompanying exhibition showcasing innovative technologies,
conservation projects, and sustainable practices. Side events,
including workshops and networking sessions, provided participants
with valuable opportunities to engage with experts, share best
practices, and forge new partnerships.
Reflecting on the success of the forum, Dr. Mohammed Ali Qurban, CEO of the National Center
for Wildlife, remarked: "The inaugural Hima Protected Areas Forum
has set a precedent for inclusive and collaborative conservation
efforts in the region. By bringing together diverse stakeholders
and fostering dialogue, we have taken significant strides towards
ensuring the long-term sustainability of our natural heritage."
The inaugural Hima Protected Areas Forum concluded with a
renewed commitment to collaboration, innovation, and action in
safeguarding our natural heritage for future generations. As
delegates depart with a shared sense of purpose and determination,
the momentum generated by this landmark gathering will continue to
drive positive change in the conservation landscape.
For more information and to access resources from the forum,
please visit https://hima.ncw.gov.sa/ .
About NCW:
The National Center for Wildlife is a leading institution
dedicated to wildlife conservation, research, and education in
Saudi Arabia. Established to
protect and preserve the Kingdom's rich biodiversity, NCW works
tirelessly to promote environmental sustainability and raise
awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation.
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SOURCE National Center for Wildlife