Environment Minister Highlights Role of Nature Reserves in Biodiversity Conservation

Nature Reserves.

The management of Wadi El Gemal-Hamata Protectorate in the Red Sea Governorate has conducted a variety of environmental and awareness activities as part of the celebrations for World Environment Day 2026, themed “The Planet Does Not Argue… It Does Not Negotiate… It Sends Signals.”.

This event involved collaboration among several government entities, civil society organizations, the private sector, and local communities, aimed at enhancing environmental awareness and supporting efforts to conserve natural resources and biodiversity.

Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Environment, emphasized that World Environment Day serves as a vital opportunity to highlight the importance of protecting the environment and preserving natural resources for future generations. She noted that the ministry places significant emphasis on supporting nature reserves as essential tools for biodiversity conservation and the protection of unique ecosystems, contributing to sustainable development goals and enhancing resilience against climate change impacts.

The activities included an underwater cleanup campaign at diving sites and Marsa Ajla beach, involving participation from the Port Ghalib Protectorate office and Marsa Alam city council, alongside contributions from Sukari Mine, the Red Sea Environmental Conservation Association (HEPCA), youth associations from Marsa Alam, local educational authorities, and various diving centers and hotels operating in the Red Sea region.

Approximately 70 students from different educational stages in Marsa Alam schools participated in these events, along with several foreign tourists. The activities featured environmental drawing sessions and awareness lectures on the importance of preserving marine environments and natural resources, as well as individual roles in reducing pollution and protecting biodiversity.

Additionally, the management conducted a cleanup campaign in mangrove areas and Hamata Marina with participation from school students in Hamata village and several tour guides to raise environmental awareness among students and local communities while promoting participation in protecting coastal ecosystems.

A cleanup initiative was also carried out at Wadi El Gemal estuary and Ras Baghdadi in collaboration with the Association for a Borderless Environment, as part of ongoing efforts to maintain cleanliness in ecologically sensitive areas within the reserve.

In support of coastal ecosystem restoration efforts, 1,000 mangrove seedlings were planted in Um Mahara, Mastoura, and Al-Rada areas in partnership with the Borderless Environment Association. Mangroves are crucial for protecting coastlines from erosion, supporting biodiversity, sequestering carbon, and providing natural habitats for various marine and terrestrial species.

The Wadi El Gemal-Hamata Protectorate also participated in a scientific seminar organized by the Borderless Environment Association from June 2 to June 5, 2026. The protectorate hosted participants on a field visit to learn about mangrove protection efforts. The visit included an educational presentation on mangroves’ ecological importance and propagation methods along with field tours at different planting sites within the reserve to understand scientific criteria for site selection. The event concluded at Qalaan area, known as one of the premier ecological and tourism destinations within the reserve.

Dr. Manal Awad reiterated that these activities are part of the Ministry’s efforts to enhance environmental awareness across various community segments while encouraging public participation in conserving natural resources. She highlighted that maintaining coastal and marine ecosystems is a core focus area for achieving biodiversity conservation goals while ensuring sustainable resource use that supports sustainable development objectives amid environmental challenges.

The Minister commended fruitful cooperation among all participating entities involved in executing these events. She affirmed that successful environmental protection initiatives require continued partnerships between state agencies, civil society organizations, private sector stakeholders, and citizens to safeguard natural wealth while achieving sustainable development.

At the conclusion of the events, management expressed gratitude to all participating organizations and institutions for their support during World Environment Day celebrations. They appreciated contributions from partners and volunteers who aided activities aimed at environmental protection and resource conservation.