UN FAO Tackles Wildfires in North Africa and West Asia
The 27th session of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization's Near East Forestry and Range Commission concluded in Jeddah, with a significant focus on combating wildfires. The Saudi National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification launched the Forest Ambassadors program to empower environment sector workers and develop a regional early warning system integrating weather and vegetation data.
The commission highlighted the growing impact of wildfires in North Africa and West Asia, with serious environmental, economic, and social consequences. Current droughts, extreme heatwaves, and prolonged dry spells have exacerbated wildfire risks, disrupting natural systems and communities. FAO Saudi Arabia's program director, Dr. Nizar Haddad, emphasized the need to minimize wildfire risks through better preparation and advanced alerts. Members committed to regional assessments and financial support to ensure the long-term success of restoration initiatives. The commission recommended continuing support for national fire management strategies aligned with international standards and national contexts. Participating countries were invited to conduct a regional assessment of investment opportunities in forest and rangeland restoration.
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization's Near East Forestry and Range Commission ended with a clear focus on addressing wildfire risks in the region. The Saudi National Center's Forest Ambassadors program and the planned regional early warning system aim to empower workers and prevent damage. The commission's recommendations and the invited regional assessments signal a concerted effort to mitigate wildfire impacts and promote restoration.
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