Benghazi is gearing up for a significant environmental initiative, the “Mohamed Salem Al-Barghathi Afforestation Campaign,” set to begin in January. This ambitious project aims to plant 10,000 forest seedlings in the city, honouring the legacy of the late agricultural expert, Mohamed Salem Al-Barghathi.
The campaign results from a collaborative agreement between the Blessed Tree Association, and the University of Benghazi. This partnership is further represented by the University of Benghazi’s Business Incubator, and its Office for Women’s Support and Empowerment.
This effort will kick off within the University of Benghazi, backed by the Central Region’s Great Man-Made River Project Investment Authority. The initiative has garnered support and participation from various sectors, including Benghazi’s Agriculture Sector, the Great Man-Made River Project Investment Authority for the Benghazi Plain, the Agricultural Engineering Profession, the University of Benghazi’s Technical Affairs and Projects Management, the Benghazi Red Crescent branch, and the city’s Scouts Movement.
The seedlings will be distributed across several locations within the city, as per the campaign’s planned strategy. This initiative not only aims to enhance the city’s green cover, but also stands as a tribute to the environmental vision of Al-Barghathi.
The campaign is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Benghazi’s institutions and civil society, reflecting a growing awareness and commitment to environmental sustainability in Libya.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.