In a significant move towards environmental conservation, Algeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Yassine Mehdi Oualid, has announced a nationwide campaign to plant five million trees within a single 24-hour period next March. The initiative, aimed at expanding forest cover, preserving green spaces, and promoting environmental citizenship, was unveiled during the opening of the 39th annual session of the National Council of Algerian Muslim Scouts in Sidi Fredj, Algiers.
The announcement followed a partnership agreement signed between the Algerian Muslim Scouts and the Directorate General of Forests, highlighting the collaborative effort driving this ambitious project. The opening ceremony also included honoring the family of the late Mujahid Brigadier General Hammou Abdeljabbar, the namesake of this year’s session.
Minister Oualid emphasized that this campaign builds upon the success of a previous initiative where over 1.4 million trees were planted in collaboration with the ‘Green Algeria’ association, exceeding the initial target of one million trees. The minister highlighted the importance of such initiatives in fostering a sense of environmental responsibility among the youth and the broader community.
Minister of Youth Moustafa Hidaoui lauded the strategic partnership with the Algerian Muslim Scouts, recognizing the organization’s crucial role in integrating institutional efforts with youth initiatives. He emphasized the Scouts’ contribution to summer camps and instilling values of discipline and volunteerism in young people.
Abdel Rahman Hamzaoui, General Leader of the Algerian Muslim Scouts, affirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting state policies in youth, environment, and citizenship. He reiterated the Scouts’ dedication to national initiatives and environmental protection, emphasizing its role as a leading national institution in shaping future generations with values of volunteerism and service to the nation.
The opening ceremony concluded with a symbolic tree-planting activity at the ‘Mohamed Bouras’ Scout camp, officially marking the Algerian Muslim Scouts’ participation in the upcoming national campaign. This commitment underscores their dedication to environmental citizenship and safeguarding the natural environment. The ambitious campaign aims to significantly contribute to Algeria’s environmental sustainability and combat the effects of climate change. The large-scale planting effort is expected to involve volunteers from across the country. Experts believe this initiative could serve as a model for other nations facing similar environmental challenges.
