Sana'a: A coordination meeting, including leaders from several districts in Sana'a and Mahweet governorates, discussed a joint mechanism to prevent illegal logging on Monday. The meeting focused on raising awareness of the environmental and economic risks of deforestation, as well as showcasing successful models from the region.
According to Yemen News Agency, the meeting, held in the district of Manakha, brought together local authorities, representatives from relevant offices, security officials, and agricultural associations from the districts of Sufan, Manakha, and al-Hayma in Sana'a, as well as Bani Saad in Mahweet. The primary goal was to establish a coordinated approach to combating the issue of illegal logging, an initiative stemming from the workshops organized by the Agricultural Cooperative Union for local authorities and cooperative associations.
Discussions focused on raising awareness within local communities about the dangers of excessive tree-cutting on the environment, livestock, and bee populations. One key part of the meeting was the presentation of the Bani Saad district's experience as a successful model in reducing this harmful practice.
The meeting also concluded with the adoption of monitoring and surveillance mechanisms, as well as the strengthening of coordination and networking between districts and associations, under the oversight of the Agricultural Cooperative Union. This collaboration aims to unify efforts and replicate successful experiences across the governorates.
During the meeting, Munir al-Kebsi, Director of Manakha District, emphasized that addressing these issues is a significant step in fostering collaboration between districts in agricultural and developmental aspects, thus contributing to the protection of natural resources and sustainable development. Abdulaziz al-Masabih, Coordinator of the Cooperative Sector and representative of the Bonyan Foundation in Mahweet, highlighted the importance of developing a feasible, actionable plan. He noted that the Agricultural Cooperative Union is the primary body responsible for organizing and coordinating these efforts.
Furthermore, Osman Yaseen, Chairman of the Bani Saad Association, pointed out that the destruction of vegetation has led to substantial economic losses. He stressed the need to expand the association's model to further promote environmental preservation, agricultural expansion, and sustainable livestock and beekeeping practices as alternatives to deforestation.
The participants agreed on the importance of implementing the outcomes of the meeting in the coming period. They also scheduled a follow-up meeting to assess progress, track achievements, and ensure the preservation of vegetation and the environment, with the goal of achieving sustainable agricultural development across all districts.