SHARJAH: Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah, attended the closing ceremony of the tenth and final edition of the Mountain Awareness Campaign initiative.
The campaign was implemented by EPAA through its branches in Khorfakkan and Kalba over the past 10 years, under the slogan “Let It Dignitary and Sustainable.” The ceremony was held at the Khorfakkan Cultural Center, with various representatives from government entities in the Eastern Region in attendance.
Hana Saif Al Suwaidi emphasised the campaign’s ongoing efforts to implement the directives of the wise leadership in Sharjah, as stipulated by Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2014, which prohibits defacing mountain areas in Sharjah. These areas hold great geographical, historical, natural, and touristic significance.
She added that the campaign successfully achieved significant results in raising awareness among community members, particularly government employees and school studen
ts, about the importance of preserving the mountains, their natural resources, and their environmental features.
Al Suwaidi highlighted that the initiative aligns with EPAA’s strategic plan to support environmental programmes and projects. It also builds on the success of previous campaigns, contributing to the implementation of the directives of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who provides strong support for environmental preservation and closely monitors related initiatives.
She further noted that the campaign is one of EPAA’s key initiatives in promoting a culture of volunteerism and social responsibility among individuals, organisations, and institutions. It seeks to unify efforts and resources to maintain the civilised appearance of mountain areas, prevent defacement through graffiti or flags, and curb harmful practices that could threaten the ecosystem. The initiative also aims to sustain the local flora and fauna, fostering environmental bal
ance and biodiversity.
Awatif Al Naqbi, Manager of EPAA’s Khorfakkan Branch, praised the enthusiastic participation and cooperation of all involved in the initiative. She extended her gratitude to the contributors, supporters, and partners of the campaign. Al Naqbi highlighted the campaign’s positive impact, which motivates the EPAA team to further enhance its programmes and initiatives.
The public warmly received the campaign’s activities, expressing appreciation for EPAA’s environmental and biodiversity conservation efforts, and acknowledged that the initiative significantly raised their environmental awareness.
The ceremony included a film showcasing the achievements of the campaign over its current and past editions. There was also an educational theatrical performance by students from Atika Bint Zaid School in Khorfakkan. The event concluded with the honouring of participants and collaborators.
Additionally, the event featured various side activities, a photo exhibition of the mountains in the Easter
n Region, and a dedicated section for documenting environmental events and exhibitions conducted by participating schools.
In addition to this campaign, EPAA also organises annual awareness campaigns for other areas and ecosystems in Sharjah, such as the Desert Environment Awareness Campaign and the Marine and Coastal Environment Awareness Campaign, which includes the Sir Bu Nair Environmental Heritage Festival.
Source: Emirates News Agency
