From the Desert to the Sea: Conservation in Action

 

Ras Abu Galoum is a breathtaking nature reserve in South Sinai, Egypt, located between Dahab & Nuweiba. It encompasses approximately 400 square kilometers of diverse ecosystems, including coastal mountains, narrow valleys,  and fine  gravel beaches. Its accessible only by boat or via a camel trek along a narrow coastal path. This protectorate is home to rich biodiversity, hosting about 165 plant species, 44 of which are unique to the Sinai Peninsula as well as a variety of mammals and reptiles. Abu Galoums is gaining more popularity and is attracting more visitor traffic, which threatens the delicate ecosystem  of the portectorate, leading to environmental degradation and the retreat of wildlife from its natural habitat.

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With support from Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Hemaya  wanted to track and assess the ecological health of that area by deploying wildlife trap cameras to monitor biodiversity and conducting a comprehensive land survey. These efforts provided valuable data, helping track changes in wildlife populations and habitat conditions over time.

Recognizing the need to balance local economy with environmental preservation, Hemaya established dedicated areas for Bedouins work in tourism to securely tie their camels, preventing them from roaming freely and disturbing the delicate landscape.

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In collaboration with Suez Canal University, Hemaya also extended its efforts beneath the surface. Through an extensive underwater survey, the team assessed the health of Abu Galoum’s coral reefs, one of the region’s most beautiful and rich marine ecosystems.

 

Also in collaboration with rangers and local officials, Hemaya conducted patrols to monitor illegal fishing activities and remove unauthorized fishing nets, helping to protect marine life and preserve the ecosystem.