The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) branch in Khorfakkan, honoured the participants of the fifth awareness campaign for visitors to the mountains in the Eastern Region, which was aimed at government employees, partners and students in Khorfakkan.

The campaign was in line with Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2014, which was issued by His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Executive Council; the Resolution prohibits defacing or damaging mountainous areas in the Emirate of Sharjah. EPAA organised the campaign to preserve the mountains and their natural resources and environmental features.

HE Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, EPAA Chairperson, said, “The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of responsible recreation in natural environments, preserving the area’s appearance, preventing mountains from being defacing with drawings or flags, restoring environmental balance and protecting the botanical diversity in the mountains.”

Mrs Al Suwaidi explained that EPAA is keen to implement the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who supports efforts to conserve the environment and who follows up on details related to the protection and preservation of the environment in various regions. The highly successful fifth campaign builds on the achievements of previous campaigns.

Mrs Awatif Al-Naqbi Director of Khorfakkan branch added, “We thank everyone who contributed to the success of this campaign. We extend our thanks to the organisations and individuals that partnered with us on this programme; they are partners in its success and excellence. We also thank the partners who actively supported our campaign to preserve mountains, their natural resources, and their environmental features.”

The campaign’s events and activities were well-received by the participants, who expressed their appreciation for EPAA’s efforts. They said that these efforts helped to raise their awareness and that they are now more committed to preserving and protecting the environment.

The closing ceremony included a speech by Mrs Al-Naqbi, a speech by the Chairman of Khorfakkan Municipal Council, a musical performance by the Military Band and a theatrical performance by Sharjah Children’s Center in Khorfakkan. The participants and partners were honoured for their efforts.