Planting trees in Jazan mosques: An environmental initiative with the participation of 1152 volunteers

In a move reflecting a deep commitment to improving the environment and enhancing quality of life, the Jazan branch of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance launched a unique initiative to plant trees in the courtyards of mosques and prayer halls as part of the "Tree Planting Season" activities. This initiative comes in strategic cooperation with the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification, aiming to transform the courtyards of mosques into green oases that delight the eye and improve the atmosphere.

In support of the Saudi Green Initiative

This initiative is of paramount importance as it is a key pillar of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically the Saudi Green Initiative launched by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, which aims to plant billions of trees across the Kingdom to combat desertification and reduce carbon emissions. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs' role here extends beyond the religious sphere to encompass social and environmental responsibility. Through these campaigns, the Ministry seeks to utilize the vast spaces surrounding mosques to increase green areas, thereby contributing to lower temperatures and providing shade for worshippers, particularly in a region like Jazan, which is characterized by its hot and humid climate.

Widespread community engagement and record numbers

The initiative witnessed remarkable community engagement, reflecting the awareness of the region's residents regarding the importance of volunteer and environmental work. Official statistics revealed the participation of 1,152 volunteers, who contributed exceptional efforts exceeding 5,700 volunteer hours. This significant number directly contributes to achieving one of the ambitious goals of the vision to reach one million volunteers, and underscores the positive spirit of the region's young men and women in serving mosques and the community.

Comprehensive geographic scope and environmental objectives

The initiative covered a wide geographical area, including the city of Jazan and the governorates of Sabya, Ahad Al Masarihah, and Samtah, targeting 40 mosques and prayer halls. Efforts focused on planting seedlings suited to the region's environment and tolerant of the climatic conditions, ensuring their sustainability and growth. These efforts aim to:

• Improving the urban and visual landscape around mosques.
• Combating sand encroachment and reducing land degradation.
• Raising environmental awareness among worshippers and residents of neighboring areas.
• Establishing the concepts of preserving the environment as a civilized Islamic value, as the true religion urges planting, cultivation and development of the land.

These moves come as part of a series of programs implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in various regions of the Kingdom, thus confirming that caring for mosques is not limited to construction and restoration, but also includes caring for their environment and surroundings so that they may be beacons of cultural and environmental enlightenment.