Doha: The General Directorate of Endowments at the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) has announced the continuation of its partnership with the “Flower Each Spring” program for 2025. This announcement came during a press conference attended by officials and environmental experts.
According to Qatar News Agency, Director General of the General Directorate of Endowments at the Ministry Hassan Abdullah Al Marzouqi highlighted the significance of this partnership as part of the Directorate’s social responsibility efforts. He stressed the importance of intensifying efforts to protect green spaces and natural areas that are home to native plants, describing them as both national and global treasures. These areas play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and enhancing the aesthetic aspect of human life.
Al Marzouqi further emphasized that environmental conservation is a religious duty, citing several Prophetic sayings that encourage planting trees and caring for nature. He noted that supporting such initiatives aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritizes environmental sustainability.
Chairman of the “Flower Each Spring” program Dr. Saif Ali Al Hajri underscored that nature conservation is a sacred duty rooted in Quranic verses and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He expressed gratitude for the generous support from the General Directorate of Endowments, emphasizing the program’s commitment to preserving and enhancing nature, ensuring it remains healthy, vibrant, and beautiful. He noted that to achieve its awareness goals, the program must align with the community’s identity and Qatar’s Vision 2030.
Dr. Al Hajri commended the efforts of the Directorate, describing the program, originally launched in 1999 by HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, as a pioneering initiative with the aim of connecting future generations with their natural heritage and raising environmental awareness, contributing to a sustainable and green future.
This year, the program will celebrate Al Kahal plant (Arnebia decumbens), a seasonal Qatari species known for its lance-shaped leaves and small yellow flowers. Historically, its red stems were used as natural eyeliner. The plant is widely found in Qatar’s nature reserves and across the Arabian Peninsula.
By spotlighting this plant, the program seeks to raise awareness of its ecological and cultural significance. Activities include educational eco-tours to the permanent camp in Ras Al Matbakh, Al Khor City, with around 300 participants, including school students.
The program will also feature a variety of awareness activities, such as environmental stations introducing concepts like waste recycling, the impact of insects and birds on ecosystems, climate change, and panel discussions with environmental and sustainability experts to highlight efforts in biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.
The General Directorate of Endowments reiterated that supporting such initiatives falls under the endowment branch for family and childhood care. Environmental endowments are considered ongoing charity that benefits both society and the environment. This aligns with the Prophetic saying: “When a person dies, their deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them.”