Khartoum, Feb. 1, 2026 (SUNA) – The sectoral workshops at the headquarters of the Supreme Council for Environment and Urban & Rural Development in Khartoum State opened today, marking the launch of the “Ecosystem Restoration and Recovery” workshop.The event is part of Khartoum State’s environmental initiative programme, aimed at raising awareness and supporting the recovery phase under the slogan “Together for a Healthy Environment and Stable Communities.” It is coordinated in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Sudan office, under the patronage of the Wali of Khartoum State, Ahmed Othman Hamza.The Secretary-General of the Supreme Council, Ghada Hussein Al-Awad, congratulated participants on the International Day for Biological Diversity, noting this year’s theme, “Protecting Wetlands for Our Shared Future,” which emphasizes conserving wetlands and protecting them from threats. She outlined the workshops’ objectives, which aim to involve all stakeholders in developing a shared vision and actionable plans for funding by international and regional organizations.The Director of UNEP Sudan, Muna Zain Al-Abdeen, highlighted challenges posed by fragmented efforts, multiple initiatives, and weak coordination. She stressed that successful ecosystem restoration requires partnership, shared responsibility, and strategic rebuilding to reduce future risks and enhance resilience amid climatic and economic shocks. She called for strengthened cooperation between state and federal institutions, international partners, national organizations, and local communities, emphasizing the need for data sharing, joint planning, and unified environmental recovery strategies. During the workshop, Professor Abdal-Aziz Karamallah, UNEP consultant and expert in natural resource management, presented a paper titled “Workshop on Ecosystem Restoration and Recovery in Khartoum State.” Chief Engineer Mohamed Zain Ahmed, Director of the General Directorate of Natural Resources and Forests at the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, presented on “Encroachments on Pastures, Forests, and Gardens in Khartoum State.” Lubna Abdulrahman presented the Council’s vision for environmental recovery.Participants recommended involving decision-makers in environmental concerns, enforcing environmental laws, empowering local communities, eliminating overlaps between state and federal jurisdictions, training technical cadres, and establishing a specialized environmental police force.AS/BH