In a generous move to support Lebanon in preserving its natural environment, Japan granted the Lebanese Association for the Protection of Jabal Moussa (APJM) $63,402 through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Program.
This grant came in support of the APJM’s efforts to preserve the wildlife and magnificent nature and rich sites of the Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve, which is part of the UNESCO Network of Biosphere Reserves as of 2009.
The association was provided with firefighting equipment and training programs, aiming at enhancing the firefighting capability to ensure a safer living environment for at least 28,000 residents of the surrounding villages: Yahchouch, Qehmez, Jouret El-Thermos, Nahr El-Dahab, Ghbale, Aabri, and Chouwen.
The equipment included fire extinguishers, water valves, pipes, fuel breaks, and a water supply network. The installation has been finalized, securing the villages with a fire suppression system, a project that is now completed.
The Association for the Protection of Jabal Moussa has been relentless in preserving the reserve and its biodiversity.
The reserve is also home to 750 species of flowers and trees, and a Global Important Bird Area (GBIA) of 137 bird species.
Jabal Moussa is one of Lebanon’s main natural treasures, a mesmerizing area that is also rich in cultural and historical ancient sites, including Roman stairs, an Ottoman settlement, an olive press, a Byzantine Church, and many more interesting sites.
It is also a favorite destination for nature lovers and hikers, with several hiking trails, the five newest ones were created three years ago by the APJM and Lebanon Industry Value Chain Development.
APJM has been playing an important role in the conservation of the Jabal Moussa reserve’s biodiversity and the preservation of its cultural heritage.
That fact was praised by Japan’s ambassador to Lebanon, Okubo, who also praised the association’s tireless efforts in achieving this new project thanks to Japan’s grant.
To know more about this mesmerizing area of Lebanon, check the 15 Amazing Facts You Must Know About Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve!
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