Amman: The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), in collaboration with Leaders International for Economic Development, announced the initiation of the “Nature Action” project in Eastern Badia.
This initiative, funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Jordan through its “Sharakah” Fund, was formalized during an agreement signing ceremony.
Present at the event were Harry Verweij, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Jordan, Batoul Ajlouni, Chair of the Board of Directors of the RCSN, Fadi Al-Nasser, Director-General of the RCSN, and Hamza Shamileh, Director-General of Leaders International in Jordan.
The project, set to span approximately two years, is aimed at elevating environmental awareness, fostering sustainable tourism, and empowering local communities in the Eastern Badia region.
The first year will focus on field research and studies to preserve nature and promote green growth, particularly in the Al-Shoumari Wildlife Reserve and Al-Dahek Reserve.
The sub
sequent year will see the implementation of strategies to enhance infrastructure and sustainable tourism, including the development of innovative tourism experiences such as accommodation sites, local experiences, and adventure activities.
Additionally, the project will support the local community through awareness campaigns, training programs, and the promotion of small and medium-sized enterprises to generate sustainable employment opportunities.
Ambassador Verweij highlighted the significance of the project in preserving Jordan’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage, aligning with Dutch priorities in Jordan of supporting climate action alongside local economic development.
Shamileh underscored the project’s role in promoting sustainable development and economic growth, emphasizing the balance between nature protection and sustainable development goals in the Kingdom.
The involvement and empowerment of local communities are crucial components of the organization’s strategy for the project’s sustaina
ble success.
Ajlouni remarked on the project’s pivotal role for the association, aiming to transform the Azraq site into a leading eco-tourism destination through community empowerment, sustainable tourism promotion, and vital research.
The project seeks to harmonize nature, economic development, and local well-being.
Al-Nasser added that the initiative represents a step towards achieving sustainable development goals in the region, underscoring the commitment of partners to preserve nature and promote sustainable tourism.
The project is expected to have a positive impact on the Azraq region and its surrounding areas.
Source: Jordan News Agency