Latest news with #MinistryOfMunicipality
Zawya
3 days ago
- General
- Zawya
Qatar expands public parks, green infrastructure to fight land degradation
Doha, Qatar: On the occasion of the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, observed annually on June 17, the Ministry of Municipality has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability by scaling up the nation's green infrastructure. This strategic focus on expanding public parks and increasing vegetation cover is a key component of Qatar's national efforts to combat desertification, curb the effects of drought, and promote long-term sustainable development. Under the theme 'Restore the land. Unlock the opportunities', the 2025 observance shines a light on how restoring nature's foundation — land — can create jobs, boost food and water security, support climate action and build economic resilience. With land degradation now impacting up to 40% of the world's land area, the observance serves as a vital reminder of the urgency to restore and protect terrestrial ecosystems. Qatar is responding with action, aligning its greening policies with international environmental goals and taking decisive steps to manage land sustainably. The Ministry of Municipality underscored the essential role that public parks and green spaces play in building resilience against drought and land degradation. As of today, Qatar is home to 127 public parks and 153 established green areas, including public parks, landscaped plazas, and scenic Corniches. Ambitiously, the Ministry is working to increase the number of green spaces, which is expected to reach 160 soon. More than three million square meters of green space have already been developed. These initiatives are being implemented with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. Landscaping projects prioritise native and drought-tolerant plant species, which are ideally suited to Qatar's arid climate. Additionally, the Ministry has adopted smart water-saving technologies and continues to use treated wastewater for irrigation, significantly reducing the ecological footprint of these developments. Expanding public parks and green infrastructure can play a crucial role in combating land degradation by promoting sustainable land use, improving soil health, and managing water resources. These green spaces offer a multitude of benefits, including enhanced biodiversity, reduced urban heat island effects, and improved air and water quality. The Ministry's landmark Plant Ten Million Trees Initiative, designed to enhance biodiversity, increase carbon absorption, and improve overall ecological balance. Complementing this afforestation programme is a comprehensive strategy to expand green belts, ornamental agriculture, and aesthetic landscaping across urban areas. Sustainability in Qatar is not just about planting trees — it's about cultivating a culture of environmental responsibility. The Ministry continues to lead public awareness campaigns that educate citizens about the value of agriculture and green living, fostering greater community participation in conservation and urban farming. Through these outreach efforts, residents are empowered to contribute to a greener, healthier environment. As Qatar moves forward with its environmental agenda, the Ministry of Municipality embraces the guiding principle that 'Every tree we plant and every square metre we green is an investment in a greener future for Qatar.' This vision reinforces the nation's commitment to environmental stewardship and intergenerational equity, ensuring that future generations inherit a livable, resilient, and sustainable homeland. In solidarity with the global movement to halt land degradation and restore ecosystems, Qatar's initiatives offer a powerful model of how urban development, climate adaptation, and community engagement can converge to create a thriving green legacy. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
26-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar's livestock sector sees strong growth in 2024 with 1.1mln animals, 50 projects
Doha, Qatar: The Livestock Affairs Department at the Ministry of Municipality has announced significant progress in the development of Qatar's livestock sector, reflecting the country's strategic commitment to food security, local production, and veterinary regulation. According to the figures released by the Ministry in its 2024 achievement report, Qatar's total livestock population has reached 1,139,578 animals, comprising four key species. Sheep comprise the largest share, accounting for approximately 60% of the total, with a population of 681,293 heads. Goats are next, representing 29% of the livestock, totaling 325,233 heads. Camels number 94,299, making up 8%, while cattle are the smallest group, with 38,753 heads or 3% of the overall population. In parallel, the Ministry reported a robust agricultural community, with 7,089 registered livestock breeders officially listed in the national breeder registry. These breeders play a central role in meeting local demand for meat, dairy, and poultry products. The Department continues to facilitate and supervise animal production investments. Currently, there are 50 licensed animal production projects across the country. Of these, 32 projects are fully operational, while 18 projects are still under construction. Among these, meat production projects form the largest segment, with a total of 15 projects, of which 2 are operational and 13 are under construction. In the milk production sector, there are 4 projects, including 3 operational projects and 1 still in development. As for the poultry sector, 8 projects have been licensed for broiler chicken production, though all of them are operationl. Table egg production includes 5 projects, with 3 in operation and 2 underway. Meanwhile, 15 projects focus on the production of local chickens and other poultry types, with 2 under construction and 13 currently operational. In addition, the country has 1 project dedicated to buffalo production, which is operational. In support of these growing projects, the Department of Animal Wealth has strengthened its regulatory and supervisory role. This includes the licensing, renewal, and inspection of livestock and poultry production projects. Furthermore, the Ministry evaluates and certifies veterinarians working in the private sector, ensuring that only qualified professionals operate in the field. It also inspects, licenses, and monitors veterinary establishments across the country to uphold public health and safety standards. These achievements align closely with Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritizes agricultural sustainability, food security, and economic diversification. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to continuing this development through strategic planning, investment facilitation, and the ongoing support of breeders, veterinarians, and agricultural entrepreneurs. By strengthening infrastructure, promoting local production, and enforcing rigorous veterinary standards, Qatar continues to build a resilient and self-sufficient livestock sector capable of meeting future challenges and growing national demand. By supporting the 7,089 registered breeders with enhanced resources, training, and veterinary services, the department can empower farmers to scale up production sustainably. As the region strives for greater food security, these efforts will play a pivotal role in reducing import dependency and strengthening local economies. The livestock sector is well-positioned to meet its ambitious targets. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
08-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar to build three new laboratories for veterinary and agricultural research
Doha, Qatar: In collaboration with the Ministry of Municipality, the Public Works Authority 'Ashghal' announces the commencement of the design and implementation project for Animal and Agricultural Research Laboratories. This initiative aims to advance the research infrastructure in the veterinary and agricultural sectors and enhance national capabilities in this vital field. Three new laboratories Engineer Ahmed Saleh, the Project Manager, confirmed that the new laboratories will provide a state-of-the-art working environment in line with the highest international standards for veterinary and agricultural research. The project covers three main locations: the renovation of the veterinary laboratories building in the Old Airport area, the construction of a new agricultural research laboratory in Al Sheehaniya, and the setup of advanced laboratories at Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP). Comprehensive Upgrade of the Veterinary Lab in Old Airport Engineer Asmaa Al-Musallmani, Deputy Head of Health Projects Section, noted that in coordination with the Ministry of Municipality, work on the project has already begun and is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2026. She added that the project heavily relies on local materials, with approximately 55% of the materials to be sourced domestically, including steel, iron, mechanical and electrical equipment, glass, aluminum, and woodworks. She also emphasized the Buildings Projects Department's commitment to the highest standards of quality, health and safety, and modern technologies to help realize Qatar's vision of building an advanced research infrastructure. Engineer Asmaa Al-Musallmani added that one of the targeted projects includes the redevelopment of the veterinary laboratory in the Old Airport area. The project aims to enhance the facility's infrastructure and research capacity through comprehensive structural renovations, lab unit upgrades, and the construction of a fully equipped facility for veterinary autopsy operations. New Agricultural Research Facility in Al Sheehaniya In this context, Engineer Omar Abdulaziz Al Mahmoud, Project Engineer, explained that a new agricultural research lab will be constructed in Al Sheehaniya over an area of 1,191 square meters to serve as an integrated center for agricultural research. The facility will include specialized laboratories such as sample reception and preparation rooms, physical and chemical processing labs, spectroscopy and soil extraction labs, along with supporting facilities including administrative offices, meeting rooms, and storage areas for chemicals and glassware. Advanced Labs at Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) Engineer Fahad Al Abdullah, the Project Engineer, highlighted that the project includes equipping three units (104, 105, and 106) at QSTP and transforming them into advanced research labs using the latest technologies. He added that the laboratories will include a pesticide lab, a biotechnology and plant pathology lab, and a herbs and seeds lab, along with auxiliary spaces such as sample storage, researcher offices, meeting rooms, and support facilities. The work will be carried out in accordance with Qatar Foundation's guidelines to ensure the highest standards of quality and innovation. Sustainable design reflecting Qatari identity The veterinary lab in the Old Airport area, the Sheehaniya lab, and the QSTP facilities have been developed in accordance with the highest local and international standards, while preserving Qatar's cultural identity and heritage. The project incorporates modern sustainability practices such as energy and water efficiency, the use of locally produced and eco-friendly materials, advanced fire safety measures, and low-emission, non-toxic construction elements. This project reflects Qatar's ongoing commitment to advancing scientific research in the livestock and agricultural sectors and establishing leadership in veterinary and agricultural studies through state-of-the-art infrastructure that supports sustainable development and the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( The Peninsula Newspaper
