The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) proudly participated in the official inauguration ceremony of the new Governor of Lions Clubs International District 351 (Lebanon, Jordan and Palestine), Mr. Elias Antonios, held at the Phoenicia Hotel in Beirut under the patronage of the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister.
Representing SPNL were Mr. Assad Serhal, Director General of SPNL and founder of the modern Hima revival movement in Lebanon, and Mr. Andre Bechara, Manager of the Homat Al Hima Program.
The ceremony also highlighted the presence of Former District Governor Fadi Ghanem, one of SPNL’s closest strategic partners and a longstanding advocate for integrating environmental stewardship into Lions’ humanitarian mission. Through his leadership and unwavering support, the collaboration between SPNL and Lions District 351 has grown into a regional partnership that advances conservation, community engagement, and sustainable development. His continued commitment has laid the foundation for expanding the Homat Al Hima movement across the region.
SPNL warmly welcomed Governor Elias Antonios’ decision to establish a Regional Homat Al Hima Committee within Lions District 351 and to make the Homat Al Hima initiative one of the flagship priorities of his annual program under the theme “Empowerment.” This landmark decision marks a new chapter in the partnership between Lions and SPNL, transforming environmental action into a core regional priority.
By mobilizing the extensive Lions volunteer network alongside the Homat Al Hima movement, the initiative will empower communities across Lebanon, Jordan, and Palestine to protect biodiversity, restore ecosystems, promote environmental education, and strengthen climate resilience through collective action.
In his inaugural address, Governor Antonios reaffirmed that environmental protection would be a key priority of his mandate through afforestation, conservation of natural resources, and the promotion of environmental responsibility. The creation of the Regional Homat Al Hima Committee gives this vision a practical and sustainable framework that will engage Lions Clubs across the region in meaningful conservation initiatives.
SPNL commends Governor Elias Antonios for his visionary leadership, recognizes the invaluable role played by Former Governor Fadi Ghanem in building this strategic alliance, and looks forward to working closely with Lions District 351 to expand the Homat Al Hima movement as a regional model that unites environmental protection, community service, youth leadership, and sustainable local development.
“Protecting nature is strongest when communities become its guardians. Through the leadership of committed partners and volunteers, the Homat Al Hima movement continues to demonstrate that conservation begins with people and flourishes through collective action.”
