Today, HHIC Manager Wassim El Khatib carried out a joint field patrol with Litani River Authority (LRA) representative Mohamad Bou Kamal and Lebanon Reforestation Initiative (LRI) representative Majed Khashan, to assess and follow up on the establishment of the new River Hima, which was proposed and supported by the LRA.
The visit aimed to evaluate the ecological conditions of the river basin and to discuss the most effective types of native plants and trees that could be planted along the riverbanks. These plantings will play a crucial role in enhancing biodiversity, stabilizing the soil, filtering pollutants, and improving water quality — all of which are vital steps toward reviving the river’s natural ecosystem and ensuring its sustainability.
This patrol follows up on the meeting held a month ago between SPNL (Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon) and LRA at the Litani offices, where both institutions agreed to cooperate on developing this new Hima model. The River Hima will act as a living example of the Hima approach — where communities, institutions, and environmental partners come together to protect natural resources through sustainable practices and shared responsibility.
The discussions today also focused on technical details, including site preparation, plant selection, maintenance plans, and the involvement of local municipalities and Homat Al Hima members in the implementation phase. The team agreed that work will officially begin in about two weeks, once a few administrative and logistical issues are finalized in coordination with all partners and stakeholders.
Through this joint initiative, SPNL, HHIC, LRA, and LRI reaffirm their shared commitment to combating river pollution, enhancing ecosystem connectivity, and promoting community-led conservation under the Hima framework.
Together, we continue to work for a cleaner river, a healthier landscape, and a sustainable Lebanon.
