Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting, and Training organised an awareness lecture at the Faculty of Education at University of Aden entitled: “How to Protect Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden from the Risk of Extinction.” The event was held as part of the “Save Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), with the aim of promoting environmental awareness and preserving biodiversity.
Dr Jaklin Mansour Al-Batani, President of the Centre, emphasised that the event forms part of efforts to address pressing environmental issues, stressing that protecting sea turtles is a shared responsibility that requires raising public awareness—particularly in light of challenges such as pollution and overfishing.
For his part, the Vice President of the University of Aden for Academic Affairs, Dr Mohammed Qashash, highlighted the importance of linking academia with societal issues, affirming the university’s commitment to promoting environmental awareness and strengthening the role of students in environmental protection.
Meanwhile, the Dean of the Faculty of Education in Aden, Dr Fahmi Hassan Ahmed Yusuf, expressed his welcome for the event, noting the faculty’s commitment to supporting awareness activities, enhancing students’ environmental understanding, and integrating such issues into the educational process.
The lecture, delivered by Dr Abdullah Al-Hindi, Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Aden, reviewed the key threats facing sea turtles and ways to mitigate them, in the presence of academic staff and students. The Ru’aa Centre also carried out a field awareness activity, which included posting informational posters and distributing brochures to promote marine conservation.
On the sidelines of the lecture, the Centre implemented an additional field awareness activity with the participation of students from the Faculty of Education. This included placing guidance posters within the faculty and distributing awareness brochures, with the aim of strengthening understanding of the importance of protecting sea turtles, highlighting the threats they face, and clarifying the role of the community in reducing these risks.

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training installed an awareness billboard on Thursday at the Sira fish market in Aden, as part of the campaign “Save Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden.” The campaign aims to raise community awareness about the importance of protecting sea turtles and preserving the marine environment.
Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Batani, Head of the Centre, stated that installing this awareness billboard is part of a series of activities and programs implemented by the Centre to spread environmental awareness among fishermen and visitors to fish markets. It also seeks to highlight the importance of protecting sea turtles from hunting and illegal trade, given their significant ecological role in maintaining marine ecosystem balance.
Al-Batani further noted that these awareness initiatives aim to strengthen partnerships with the local community—especially fishermen—who are key stakeholders in protecting endangered marine species, particularly sea turtles along the coasts of the Gulf of Aden.
The installation of the billboard was carried out in coordination with the Sira Fishermen Cooperative Association, with the participation of Fisheries Quality Supervisor Fahmi Ismail. This step is intended to educate fishermen and market stakeholders on the importance of adhering to regulations and procedures that protect sea turtles and preserve marine biodiversity.

Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Batani, Head of Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training, met at the Centre’s headquarters with Ms. Suad Al-Salahi, the local project leader of the Environmental Peacebuilding Pathways Project at the European Institute of Peace. The meeting discussed a number of issues related to environmental work and its role in strengthening community partnerships.
During the meeting, Dr. Al-Batani provided a brief overview of the Centre’s key activities and programs, including its initiatives in strategic studies, training, and environmental work. She also highlighted the center’s efforts to raise community awareness on environmental issues and biodiversity conservation, including programs focused on protecting sea turtles in the Gulf of Aden.
Dr. Al-Batani further emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration between research institutions and international environmental initiatives, in a way that supports community reconciliation through joint environmental projects that promote sustainability and preserve natural resources.
For her part, Ms. Suad Al-Salahi commended the role played by Ruaa Centre in implementing environmental and awareness initiatives, stressing the importance of expanding cooperation with the center in delivering programs and projects that enhance environmental awareness, contribute to sustainable development, and help build trust among local communities.
The meeting also explored prospects for joint cooperation and the exchange of expertise in environmental and development fields, in a manner that serves environmental priorities and strengthens partnerships between local and international institutions.

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultation and Training organized today, Sunday, an environmental drawing competition titled “Turtle Friend… With Your Brush the Story Begins”, under the patronage of the Aden Governorate Office of Education and in coordination with the General Authority for Environmental Protection in Aden.
The competition, held at Arwa Primary School for Girls, was organized as part of the “Save Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, supported by the Global Environment Facility and the Small Grants Programme. Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Batani, Head of the Centre, stated that the competition forms part of the centre’s efforts to enhance environmental awareness among students and engage them in marine conservation issues. She emphasized that art and drawing are effective tools for instilling the values of protecting endangered species, especially marine turtles.
Al-Batani added that the project aims to involve the local community—particularly students and youth—in protecting marine turtles along the Gulf of Aden coast through various awareness and educational activities, including art competitions, environmental lectures, and field programs, contributing to building a generation more conscious of the importance of preserving marine biodiversity.
For his part, Eng. Niazi Mustafa, Director of the General Authority for Environmental Protection Office in Aden, praised the initiative for helping spread environmental culture among students, stressing the importance of partnership between government entities and civil society organizations in strengthening efforts to protect the marine environment and preserve endangered species.
Meanwhile, Khaled Haitham, Director of School Activities at the Aden Office of Education, explained that such school activities help develop students’ creative skills and instill a sense of responsibility toward the environment, highlighting the importance of continuing awareness programs that connect education with environmental and community issues.
The competition saw the participation of 30 students from six basic education schools in Sira District, who presented distinctive awareness-focused artwork on marine turtle protection through paintings and drawings expressing the beauty of the marine environment and the importance of preserving this endangered marine species.
The artworks reflected remarkable environmental awareness among the students, portraying the threats marine turtles face due to plastic pollution, illegal fishing, and harmful practices affecting the coastal environment. Through their art, the students delivered meaningful messages promoting marine environmental protection and reinforcing values of responsibility toward nature and biodiversity along the Gulf of Aden coast.
At the conclusion of the competition, the winners of the top four places were honored with awards and medals. The two youngest participants were also recognized, along with all other participating students in appreciation of their creativity and active engagement. The honoring ceremony also included the Aden Office of Education administration, the Director of School Environment, the Office of Education in Sira District, and the administration of Arwa School, in recognition of their role in the success of the awareness event and their support for purposeful environmental activities.

Dr Jaklin Mansour Al-Batani, President of the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting, and Training, participated in a national awareness workshop on the role of relevant stakeholders in combating illegal fishing and reducing the risks posed by ghost fishing gear. The workshop examined ways to strengthen joint efforts to protect the marine environment and curb practices that threaten biodiversity.
During the workshop, Dr Al-Batani presented a paper entitled “The Role of the Ruaa Centre in Protecting Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden and Combating Their Hunting and Trafficking.” In her presentation, she outlined the Centre’s efforts to safeguard sea turtles and preserve nesting sites along several coastal areas of the Gulf of Aden.
Dr Al-Batani explained that the Ruaa Centre, established in November 2018, operates as a non-profit development organisation dedicated to contributing to community development through scientific research and the implementation of development projects, as well as training and awareness programmes across various sectors—most notably environmental protection and the promotion of public awareness on biodiversity issues.
She also reviewed the Centre’s key activities in the field of sea turtle conservation, including the implementation of environmental initiatives and projects, alongside advocacy and community awareness campaigns aimed at protecting endangered sea turtles along the coasts of the Gulf of Aden.
Dr Al-Batani further noted that the Centre is currently implementing the “Save Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP). The project aims to protect sea turtle nests during the nesting season, reduce the threats they face, enhance environmental awareness within local communities, and encourage community participation in conservation efforts, including combating turtle hunting and trafficking.
In concluding her participation, Dr Al-Batani underscored the importance of strengthening coordination between government entities, civil society organisations, and fishermen in order to curb illegal fishing and address the dangers of ghost fishing gear, which pose a direct threat to marine life—particularly sea turtles along the coasts of the Gulf of Aden.

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting, and Training carried out a comprehensive cleanup campaign today, Tuesday, along the coast of Al-Azizi Island following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, as part of ongoing efforts to protect the coastal environment and preserve marine turtles during the hatching season.
The cleanup campaign—implemented under the project “Save Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden,” supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), in cooperation with the General Authority for Environmental Protection—featured active female participation, reflecting the center’s commitment to involving women in environmental activities to ensure sustainability.
Large quantities of plastic waste and various litter left behind by some visitors were collected and removed, in clear violation of the ban on visiting the island during the nesting and hatching season. These actions reflect irresponsible behavior and serious environmental negligence, as such waste poses a direct threat to marine turtles and their natural habitat, undermining efforts to protect this sensitive ecosystem.
Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Batani, Head of the Centre, noted that irresponsible practices by some individuals—particularly visitors from outside the city of Aden—have become a significant problem affecting the island’s cleanliness and the safety of the marine environment. She emphasized the importance of collective community efforts and adherence to regulations designed to protect environmentally sensitive sites during turtle breeding seasons.
Dr. Al-Batani also expressed her sincere appreciation to the leadership of the local authority in Al-Buraiqah District, represented by Dr. Salah Al-Shawji, for their substantial efforts in protecting the coastal environment, particularly for issuing the directive banning visits to Al-Azizi Island during the nesting and hatching season, given its important role in preserving marine turtles and their natural habitats.

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting and Training conducted a field visit to Al-Azizi Island, headed by Dr Jaklin Mansour Al-Batani, President of the Centre, accompanied by Eng. Faisal Al-Tha’alabi, Chairman of the General Authority for Environmental Protection, to review the progress of the sea turtle camping, monitoring and environmental observation programme on the island.

Ruaa Centre continues to implement the sea turtle camping, monitoring and environmental observation programme on Al-Azizi Island as part of its efforts to protect biodiversity and conserve endangered sea turtles. The programme is ongoing during the holy month of Ramadan.

During the field visit, Dr Al-Batani and Eng. Al-Tha’alabi reviewed the daily monitoring activities carried out by the field team along the island’s coastline, particularly during Ramadan. They also observed the ongoing efforts to document several sea turtles that have recently nested on the island.

The visit also witnessed the hatching of sea turtle eggs, a scene that reflects the importance of the environmental efforts being made to protect these endangered species and preserve their natural habitats.

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting and Training called for the protection of the marine environment and sea turtles, stressing the importance of restricting visits to the island, particularly during the upcoming Eid Al-Fitr holiday, in order to safeguard nesting sites and ensure the survival of these species in their natural environment.

The programme is implemented with the support of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), in cooperation with the General Authority for Environmental Protection, within a broader environmental partnership aimed at strengthening conservation measures and promoting environmental sustainability.

Today, the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultation, and Training carried out a clean-up campaign along the coast of Al-Azizi Island as part of the campaign “Save Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden,” which aims to protect the coastal environment and preserve sea turtle habitats during the nesting season.

The campaign was supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), in cooperation with the office of the General Authority for Environmental Protection. Activities included removing plastic waste and solid garbage that pose a direct threat to sea turtles and their breeding environment, particularly in areas witnessing nesting activity during this time of year.

Mohammed Al-Kazmi, Deputy Head of the Centre, stated that the campaign came in response to the urgent need to clean the coast from waste left behind by some visitors who did not comply with the directive issued by the local authority in Al-Buraika District, which prohibits visits to the island during the nesting season in order to protect turtles and their natural habitat.

Al-Kazmi called on security authorities and concerned agencies to strictly enforce this directive due to its importance in protecting marine biodiversity and preserving environmentally sensitive sites. He emphasized that continued community and official efforts are essential to ensuring the success of sea turtle conservation programs along the Gulf of Aden coast.

The campaign also saw active participation from fishermen in the Imran and Ras Imran areas, who contributed to cleaning activities and removing waste from the coastline, reaffirming their community role in protecting the marine environment and safeguarding turtle nesting sites.

Participants expressed their willingness to continue cooperating with environmental initiatives aimed at conserving natural resources and raising awareness about the importance of adhering to regulations protecting coastal areas during nesting seasons.

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training organized an awareness lecture titled “Protecting Marine Turtles Is Everyone’s Responsibility” at Omran Basic Education School in Al-Buraiqa District, Aden. The event was supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), in cooperation with the Office of the General Authority for Environmental Protection, within the framework of the project “Save Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden.”

The lecture aimed to raise environmental awareness among students and the local community about the importance of marine turtles and their role in maintaining marine ecological balance, as well as to introduce the threats facing them and ways to protect them and preserve their natural habitats along the Gulf of Aden coastline.

In her speech during the event, Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Battani, Head of Ruaa Centre, emphasized that protecting marine turtles is a collective responsibility requiring joint official and community efforts. She noted the centre’s commitment to implementing educational and awareness programs targeting students and youth to strengthen environmental awareness and promote the values of biodiversity conservation, contributing to the protection of natural resources for future generations.

For his part, Omran School principal, Mr. Raafat, welcomed Ruaa Centre’s initiative to organize the awareness lecture at the school, praising the efforts made to spread environmental culture among students and affirming the school administration’s readiness to cooperate with initiatives aimed at developing students’ awareness and strengthening their positive role in protecting the environment and society.

Dr. Jamal Bawazir, Head of the Environmental Protection Unit at the centre, presented during the lecture an overview of marine turtles, the species found in the Gulf of Aden, and their vital role in sustaining the marine ecosystem. He also highlighted the main threats they face, including pollution, overfishing, and the destruction of nesting areas, and provided practical guidelines that communities can follow to help protect marine turtles and comply with laws regulating marine wildlife protection.

The lecture witnessed notable interaction from students, who showed great interest in the information presented about marine turtles and methods of protecting them. They asked numerous questions that reflected their growing awareness of environmental issues.

The activity also included placing awareness posters around the school facilities, featuring guidance messages and informative images highlighting the importance of protecting marine turtles and preserving coastal environments from pollution and harmful practices. These posters aimed to reinforce environmental concepts among students continuously and strengthen the presence of environmental awareness in daily school life.

This activity comes within the ongoing efforts of Ruaa Centre, in partnership with supporting and environmental entities, to enhance community awareness of marine biodiversity issues in the Gulf of Aden through educational and awareness programs targeting different segments of society, contributing to building a generation more aware of its responsibility toward environmental protection and sustainable natural resources.

As part of efforts to strengthen institutional partnerships for environmental protection, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Ruaa centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training and the General Authority for Environmental Protection in the capital, Aden. The agreement aims to expand cooperation in programs related to environmental sustainability and marine environmental services in Aden and the Gulf of Aden.
The MoU was signed on behalf of the Ruaa centre by Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Battani, Head of the centre, while Engineer Niazi Mustafa, Director General of the Authority’s Office in Aden, signed on behalf of the General Authority for Environmental Protection. Both parties emphasized the importance of unifying efforts, exchanging scientific and technical expertise, and jointly implementing awareness and training projects that contribute to conserving natural resources, protecting marine life, and raising environmental awareness among different segments of society.
The cooperation areas include the “Protection of Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, which focuses on preserving nesting sites and reducing harmful practices affecting endangered marine species. The initiative also aims to strengthen the implementation of environmental legislation and build the capacities of relevant authorities, particularly security personnel and environmental workers, ensuring effective protection of marine biodiversity in the region.
Dr. Al-Battani stated that signing this memorandum represents a practical step toward strengthening cooperation between research institutions and relevant government entities, helping transform environmental initiatives into sustainable programs with a direct impact on the environmental situation.
For his part, Engineer Niazi Mustafa stressed the importance of institutional integration in addressing environmental challenges, noting that protecting marine turtles is part of a broader system aimed at safeguarding the marine environment of the Gulf of Aden for future generations.
This step comes within joint efforts to enhance organized environmental action and expand projects supporting marine life conservation and sustainable development in Aden and neighboring coastal areas.

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training concluded today, Thursday, in cooperation with the Environmental Protection Authority Office in Aden, a training course titled: “From Legal Text to Implementation: Protecting the Environment and Marine Life in the Gulf of Aden.” The course was implemented as part of the project “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden,” supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP).
The final day featured a review of the key knowledge and skills acquired by participants, including security personnel, environmental protection workers, and activists from environmental institutions and associations. Emphasis was placed on strengthening coordination between official and community entities to ensure effective implementation of environmental legislation and the protection of marine biodiversity.
During the course, trainer Mr. Yasser Ghabir, Director General of Foreign Policy at the Ministry of Water and Environment, delivered both theoretical and practical presentations covering the environmental characteristics of the Gulf of Aden and the importance of its marine biodiversity. He highlighted sea turtles as one of the endangered species and reviewed the national legislative framework governing environmental and marine protection, including the Environmental Protection Law, the Law on the Protection of the Marine Environment from Pollution, and the Law Regulating Fisheries and Marine Resources.
Dr. Jacqueline Mansour Al-Batani, Head of Ruaa Center, affirmed that the course represents a practical step toward transforming legal texts into field procedures that contribute to preserving the marine environment, particularly protecting endangered sea turtles in the Gulf of Aden. She praised participants’ engagement and their commitment to applying the knowledge gained in their professional duties.
For his part, Engineer Niazi Mustafa, Director of the Environmental Protection Authority Office in Aden, stressed the importance of continued partnership and coordination to raise environmental awareness and enforce laws regulating marine environmental protection, helping reduce harmful practices and preserve natural resources for future generations.
The event concluded with the distribution of certificates of appreciation to participants in recognition of their commitment and active participation in the training program. Participants also expressed appreciation for the course content and its role in enhancing their professional capacities, affirming their determination to transfer the knowledge and experience gained to their workplaces to support the protection of the marine environment and marine life in the Gulf of Aden.

Today, Wednesday, Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting, and Training, in cooperation with the General Authority for Environmental Protection Office in Aden, launched a specialized training course titled: “From Legal Text to Practice: Protecting the Environment and Marine Life in the Gulf of Aden.” The course is part of the “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP).

At the opening of the course, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, head of Ruaa Center, stressed the importance of moving from theoretical legal frameworks to practical implementation on the ground in order to strengthen environmental and marine life protection, particularly endangered sea turtles. She also explained that the course aims to raise awareness among security and law-enforcement authorities about legislation governing environmental and sea turtle protection, as well as the penalties and legal consequences associated with violations, emphasizing that cooperation between official institutions and civil society is essential for achieving sustainable environmental protection.

For his part, Eng. Niazi Mustafa, Director of the General Authority for Environmental Protection Office in Aden, reviewed the Authority’s role in enforcing environmental laws and highlighted the importance of increasing awareness among security personnel and relevant workers regarding legislation regulating environmental and marine protection to reduce harmful practices affecting coastal and marine ecosystems.

The training brought together security personnel, environmental protection workers, and activists from environmental institutions and associations as part of efforts to strengthen capacities and enhance legal and practical knowledge related to marine environmental protection.

The course trainer, Yasser Ghubaira, Director General of Foreign Policies at the Ministry of Water and Environment, delivered an introductory presentation on the environmental characteristics of the Gulf of Aden, highlighting sea turtles as a model of threatened marine species. He also reviewed national environmental legislation, including the Environmental Protection Law, the Marine Environment Protection Law against pollution, and the Law regulating fishing and marine life.

The two-day course comes within ongoing efforts to strengthen the enforcement of environmental laws and protect marine biodiversity in the Gulf of Aden, contributing to the preservation of marine resources for future generations.

In a move reflecting intensified efforts to protect marine life in the Gulf of Aden, the Head of the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, conducted a field visit on Tuesday to Al-Azizi Island. She was accompanied by the Director of the General Authority for Environmental Protection branch in Aden, Eng. Niazi Mustafa, the branch consultant Eng. Mohammed Abdullah Saad, and Dr. Jamal Bawazir, Head of the Environmental Protection Unit at the Centre, to review the work of field camping teams tasked with protecting sea turtles during the nesting season.

During the visit, Dr. Al-Battani and the accompanying delegation closely monitored daily nest protection and observation activities, as well as measures taken to secure nesting sites from environmental threats and human activities that endanger sea turtle populations in the area.

Dr. Al-Battani emphasized that the project “Save the Sea Turtles of the Gulf of Aden,” funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), represents a practical step toward saving one of the most endangered marine species. She noted that cooperation between the Ruaa Center and the General Authority for Environmental Protection serves as a national model for partnership in biodiversity conservation and safeguarding natural resources for future generations.

She further explained that field visits go beyond routine supervision, aiming instead to evaluate performance and provide direct support to field teams operating under challenging conditions, thereby enhancing protection efficiency and improving operational mechanisms during nesting seasons.

Dr. Al-Battani also listened to challenges faced by field teams, particularly logistical needs and environmental conditions on the island, reaffirming the Center’s commitment to continuing coordination with relevant authorities to provide necessary support and enable protection teams to effectively safeguard this rare environmental heritage.

In a step aimed at strengthening marine life protection in the Gulf of Aden, the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training met with the local authority in Al-Buraiqah District to discuss mechanisms for enhancing the protection of Al-Azizi Island during the sea turtle nesting season, which extends annually from January through the end of April.

The meeting brought together the Head of Ruaa Centre, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, and the representative of the Al-Buraiqah local authority, Mr. Hani Hussein, with the participation of the Director of the General Authority for Environmental Protection branch in Aden, Eng. Niazi Mustafa, the branch consultant Eng. Mohammed Abdullah Saad, and Dr. Jamal Bawazir, Head of the Environmental Protection Unit at Ruaa Centre.

The meeting concluded with an agreement to renew and issue an official circular prohibiting tourism activities and both daytime and nighttime visits to Al-Azizi Island throughout the nesting season, in order to minimize disturbances to sea turtles and their nests and ensure a safe environment for egg-laying and reproduction of this endangered species.

Discussions also addressed mechanisms to strengthen field monitoring and enhance coordination between local and environmental authorities to ensure compliance with the circular and the effective implementation of protection measures, thereby preserving the island as an environmentally sensitive and important biodiversity site.

Dr. Jaklin Al-Battani emphasized that protecting Al-Azizi Island is a collective responsibility requiring the commitment of all stakeholders and citizens, noting that banning visits during the nesting season represents a crucial step toward the success of the “Save the Sea Turtles of the Gulf of Aden” project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), and toward ensuring the sustainability of marine life in the region for future generations.

She further stressed that this measure forms part of ongoing efforts to protect Aden’s environmental resources and transform Al-Azizi Island into a national model for managing environmentally sensitive natural sites.

The Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultation, and Training concluded the training course on mechanisms for monitoring and protecting marine turtles during the nesting season along the Gulf of Aden coast, with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), and in coordination with the General Authority for Environmental Protection. The training was implemented as part of the project “Save the Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden.”

The conclusion of the course marked the transition to the practical phase, with a field deployment to Al-Azizi Coast, where camps were set up to officially launch the field monitoring and direct observation phase of marine turtles during the nesting season. This phase aims to apply the knowledge and skills acquired by participants throughout the training.

Participants received hands-on training conducted by Dr. Salem Basis and Dr. Abdullah Al-Hindi, covering methods for weighing marine turtles, tagging them, and handling them in a scientific and safe manner, ensuring their protection during monitoring activities in accordance with approved environmental standards.

During the field deployment, two awareness signboards were installed at the site to raise community awareness about the importance of protecting marine turtles, preserving their nesting sites, and highlighting the threats facing this endangered species.

The launch of the monitoring activities comes within ongoing efforts to protect nesting sites, track marine turtle movements, and reduce risks threatening them, contributing to the preservation of marine biodiversity along the Gulf of Aden coast and strengthening field-based environmental action in partnership with relevant authorities.

Colonel Jamal Mohsen, Commander of Salah Al-Din Police, confirmed that during the four-month nesting season, tourism activities on the island will be suspended due to their direct harm to turtle nests. He also emphasized the ban on catching marine turtles and the use of Israeli fishing nets, which pose a serious threat to them.

At the conclusion of the course, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, Head of the Ruaa Centre, expressed her gratitude to all supporting entities, partners, trainers, and participants for their efforts and cooperation in ensuring the success of the training and the launch of the field monitoring phase. She reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to continuing programs and initiatives aimed at protecting the marine environment and promoting environmental sustainability along the Gulf of Aden coast.

Field monitoring activities are scheduled to continue for four months, during which nesting sites will be documented, turtle movements monitored, and related environmental data recorded, strengthening protection efforts and conserving this important marine species.

For the second consecutive day, the training course organized by the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting, and Training continued, with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), and in cooperation with the Office of the General Authority for Environmental Protection. The course is implemented (within) the project Save the Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden, under the title: “Mechanisms for Monitoring and Protecting Marine Turtles During the Nesting Season on the Coasts of the Gulf of Aden.”

The second day of the course, delivered by academic expert Professor Dr. Salem Mahfouz Basais, focused on two main themes. The first addressed the issue of trafficking in marine turtles and the various uses associated with it, including food, medicinal, and industrial products. The second theme was dedicated to discussing systems and legislation related to the protection of marine turtles, covering international agreements, local laws, and the role of marine protected areas in conserving these endangered species.

The continuation of the course comes within the framework of efforts aimed at building the capacities of local cadres and those interested in environmental affairs, and enhancing awareness of the importance of preserving marine biodiversity along the coasts of the Gulf of Aden, thereby contributing to the protection of marine turtles and the sustainability of coastal ecosystems.

Today, Sunday, Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy, and Training launched a training course in the Faqam area titled “Mechanisms for Monitoring and Protecting Marine Turtles During the Nesting Season in the Gulf of Aden”. The course is part of the Save Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden project, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), in cooperation with the Office of the General Authority for Environmental Protection.

At the opening, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, Head of Ruaa Centre, delivered a welcoming speech to the participants, emphasizing the importance of the course in raising environmental awareness and building participants’ capacities in marine turtle conservation, highlighting that these species are endangered and play a vital role in maintaining marine ecological balance.

Dr. Al-Battani also discussed the project’s role in strengthening partnerships with relevant entities and environmental stakeholders, noting that this course is part of a series of activities aimed at protecting marine biodiversity along the Gulf of Aden coasts. She expressed her hope that the course would provide participants with maximum practical and scientific benefit and that its outcomes would positively impact marine turtle protection efforts.

The course is led by Dr. Salem Bassis, Professor of Zoology at the University of Aden, who on the first day provided a scientific overview of the marine ecosystem and its components, the importance of marine turtles within coastal ecosystems, as well as the challenges they face during the nesting season and the best methods to monitor and protect them.

The four-day training course includes both theoretical and practical sessions aimed at enhancing monitoring skills and adopting best environmental practices for the protection of marine turtles along the Gulf of Aden coasts.

A team from the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training carried out a field outreach visit to Sheikh Othman District, targeting a number of restaurants suspected of involvement in the sale of turtle meat. This activity comes within the framework of ongoing efforts to protect marine life and curb practices that violate environmental laws.
The field visit was conducted in partnership with the leadership of the community committees in the district. The team engaged directly with restaurant owners, raising their awareness of the dangers of trading in turtle meat and the serious environmental and legal consequences associated with such practices.
The outreach also included a number of herbal and spice shops in the district, where the team emphasized the importance of refraining from selling or promoting any products derived from endangered marine species, and highlighted the vital role of community participation in environmental protection.
During the visit, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, head of the centre, stressed the importance of strengthening community awareness on marine conservation issues. She underscored that protecting sea turtles is a collective responsibility requiring coordinated efforts between official institutions and community actors, and called for the continuation of such field activities due to their effective role in reducing environmental violations and fostering a culture of respect for the law.

Today, Thursday, in the capital Aden, Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training concluded the training course titled “Community Committees: Towards a Green Economy and Sustainable Development.” The course was organized with the support of the Political Development Forum and the German Berghof Foundation, and funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with the participation of a number of community committee leaders from the districts of the capital Aden.
At the closing ceremony, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, Head of the Ruaa Centre, delivered a speech expressing her happiness at the success of the course and the achievement of its objectives. She emphasized that the training programme served as an important platform for building the capacities of community committees and strengthening their role in adopting green economy initiatives and contributing effectively to sustainable development.
Dr. Al-Battani noted that the course focused on practical aspects alongside theoretical ones, praising the interaction of participants and their field initiatives—particularly the environmental initiative implemented at Faqm Coast in Al-Buraiqah District. She affirmed the Center’s commitment to continuing the implementation of high-quality programmes that serve both the community and the environment.
For her part, Ms. Manal Muhaim, Project Coordinator for Enhancing Social Cohesion through Inclusive Peace Mechanisms, stated that this course comes within the efforts of the Political Development Forum to support community initiatives and strengthen the role of local actors in promoting the concepts of peace and sustainable development. She commended the level of organization, the training content, and the participants’ engagement.
Ms. Muhaim stressed the importance of empowering community committees with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead sustainable development and environmental initiatives, expressing the Political Development Forum’s and the German Berghof Foundation’s aspiration to continue the partnership with the Ru’aa Center in implementing future programmes that serve the local community.
In turn, Brigadier Ali Al-Namri, Head of the Community Committees in the capital Aden, stated that the course constituted a qualitative addition for community committee leaders, contributing to raising awareness of environmental issues and the green economy, and strengthening organized community action.
Al-Namri praised the role played by the Ru’aa Center and the supporting partners in qualifying community cadres, affirming that the outcomes of the course will positively reflect on the performance of community committees and their field initiatives across the districts of the capital Aden.
The five-day course included training sessions and specialized lectures delivered by Dr. Jamal Bawazir, Head of the Environmental Protection Unit at the Ruaa Centre. His presentations focused on concepts of environmental protection, the green economy, and the role of community committees in reducing pollution and promoting sustainable development, in addition to training participants on mechanisms for planning and implementing environmental and community initiatives.
At the conclusion of the event, participants were honored and awarded certificates of participation, amid affirmations to continue cooperation in implementing community and environmental initiatives that contribute to serving society and achieving sustainable development.

Centre Media

Participants in the course “Community Committees: Towards a Green Economy and Sustainable Development” carried out a field activity on the fourth day of the programme, implementing an environmental initiative at Fuqm Coast in Al-Buraiqa District, the capital Aden. The initiative involved cleaning the coastline of waste and plastic debris.

The initiative forms part of the course’s practical activities, organised by Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting and Training, with the support of the Political Development Forum and the German Berghof Foundation, and funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It aims to strengthen the practical skills of community committee leaders and to embed concepts of environmental responsibility and voluntary community action.

A number of community committee leaders took part in the campaign, during which solid waste was removed and the coastal strip was cleaned, reflecting the importance of preserving the marine environment, reducing pollution, and raising community awareness of the need to protect coastlines as a vital environmental and economic resource.

Dr Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, Head of Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting and Training, stated that the field activity to clean Fuqm Coast represents a practical embodiment of the course objectives, which seek to transfer the concepts of the green economy and sustainable development from a theoretical framework into tangible practices that serve both the community and the environment.

She added that empowering Community committees to lead effective environmental initiatives enhances their role as key partners in protecting natural resources, reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to continuing training programmes and field initiatives that raise environmental awareness and build the capacities of community leaders, in support of the path towards sustainable development in the capital Aden.

The course is scheduled to continue its remaining activities tomorrow, including discussion and evaluation sessions, leading up to its conclusion.

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting and Training launched on Sunday a training course entitled “Community Committees: Towards a Green Economy and Sustainable Development”, with the support of the Political Development Forum and the German Berghof Foundation, and funding from the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

At the opening session, Dr Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, Head of Ruaa Centre, delivered a welcoming address to attendees and participants, emphasising the importance of the course in strengthening the role of community committees in promoting green economy concepts and contributing to the achievement of sustainable development at the local level.

Dr Al-Battani highlighted that building the capacities of community committees is a fundamental step in addressing environmental and developmental challenges, as well as in enhancing community partnerships to protect the environment and improve livelihoods.

For his part, Brigadier Ali Al-Namri, Head of the Community Committees in the Capital Aden, stated that the course represents a qualitative addition for community committee leaders and contributes to raising awareness of the importance of organised community action in serving environmental and development issues.

On the first day of the course, Dr Jamal Bawazir, Head of the Environmental Protection Unit at the Centre and an environmental expert, delivered training sessions explaining the concepts of the green economy, the role of community committees in achieving sustainable development, and the key environmental challenges along with ways to address them.

The training course, which runs for five consecutive days, brings together a number of community committee leaders from the districts of the Capital Aden and includes theoretical lectures and practical activities aimed at enhancing participants’ capacities.

Aden – Centre Media

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy, and Training carried out a field awareness campaign on Thursday morning in the Seera Fish Market in Aden Governorate, as part of the activities of the “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project. The campaign aims to raise awareness among fishermen, vendors, and market visitors about the importance of protecting sea turtles and preventing their capture or trade.

During the campaign, the centre’s team educated fishermen on the threats faced by sea turtles during nesting seasons and explained how harmful practices contribute to the decline of their populations. The team emphasized that protecting this vital species helps preserve the ecological balance of coastal environments.

Informational posters were also displayed in various locations throughout the market, featuring messages warning against hunting, selling, or disturbing turtles and their eggs, along with guidance on how to properly handle turtles spotted near the coast.

Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, Head of Ruaa Centre, affirmed that the campaign comes within the centre’s commitment to promoting environmental awareness in coastal communities. She noted that protecting sea turtles is a shared responsibility that requires effective cooperation between fishermen, official authorities, and civil society.

Al-Battani added that through the “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, Ruaa Centre focuses on delivering environmental knowledge in simple and direct ways, especially in areas with high maritime activity such as the Seera Fish Market. She stressed that continuing such campaigns helps reduce harmful practices that threaten the survival of endangered turtle species.

Engineer Niazi Mustafa, Director of the Environmental Protection Office in Aden, who participated in the campaign, emphasized that these activities represent an important step in enhancing environmental awareness among fishermen. He underscored the need to comply with laws prohibiting the capture of endangered marine species, particularly sea turtles.

The campaign received positive feedback from fishermen and market visitors, who expressed their willingness to cooperate in protecting the coastline and preventing any actions that may harm sea turtles, in support of the environmental efforts undertaken through the project.

Aden – Centre Media

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy and Training carried out an awareness campaign on Wednesday targeting students of the Faculty of Media at the University of Aden. The campaign included the distribution of brochures and the placement of educational posters on protecting sea turtles, as part of the activities of the “Save Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP).

Supervised by the Ruaa Centre team, the campaign aims to enhance environmental awareness among media students and engage them in spreading project messages within the campus and surrounding areas. The posters feature guidelines on sea turtle protection, ways to reduce harmful practices that threaten nesting sites in the Gulf of Aden, and legal information relevant to their protection.

Ruaa Centre’s team affirmed that the involvement of media students in this initiative reflects the pivotal role of media in promoting environmental awareness, noting that youth engagement is a key element in supporting conservation initiatives and fostering a culture of environmental respect.

The team further emphasized that the posters were designed to be simplified and easy to understand, covering essential information about sea turtles, including the threats they face and ways individuals can contribute to safeguarding coastal ecosystems.

The campaign received wide interaction from students, who expressed their willingness to participate in future initiatives and stressed the importance of media in highlighting environmental risks and showcasing community efforts to protect marine life in the Gulf of Aden.

This activity comes as part of a series of field initiatives implemented by Ruaa Centre in cooperation with academic and community institutions, aimed at promoting environmental awareness and reinforcing shared responsibility in protecting sea turtles and other endangered species.

Aden – Centre Media

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy and Training organized an environmental awareness lecture on Wednesday at the Faculty of Media, University of Aden. The event comes within the framework of the “Save Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), and aims at enhancing students’ environmental awareness and empowering them to play an active role in communicating environmental messages and safeguarding marine life.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Batani, head of the Ruaa Centre, expressed her gratitude to the faculty leadership and participating students. She emphasized that strengthening environmental awareness in academic institutions constitutes a fundamental pillar for the success of conservation efforts in the Gulf of Aden, particularly given the significant influence of media in shaping public perception and promoting positive environmental behaviour.

Dr. Al-Batani highlighted that the “Save Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project serves as a model of cooperation between research institutions, the community and government bodies, aimed at minimizing risks facing sea turtles—including marine pollution and harmful fishing activities. She urged media students to integrate environmental topics into their media content and communications agenda.

She further underscored the importance of engaging youth in environmental action, stressing that raising awareness among upcoming generations represents the most reliable guarantee for achieving sustainable protection and preserving biodiversity in the Gulf of Aden.

For his part, Dr. Waheeb Azeeban, Dean of the Faculty of Media, expressed his appreciation to the Ruaa Centre for bridging academic knowledge with practical application, noting that such lectures open new horizons for students to better understand environmental issues and acquire specialized skills in reporting on marine life.

Dr. Azeeban affirmed the Faculty’s readiness to collaborate with all entities committed to raising awareness among students, noting that media remains the most powerful tool for promoting an environmental culture and addressing behaviours that threaten coastlines and nesting sites.

Following the speeches, Dr. Abdullah Al-Hindi, Dean of the Faculty of Science and a specialist in marine life, delivered a scientific presentation covering the biological behaviour of sea turtles, key nesting sites within the Gulf of Aden, and the major threats affecting them, along with recommendations to mitigate these challenges. He emphasized the pivotal role of scientific research in supporting conservation initiatives.

The event was attended by Dr. Ali Baqityan, Vice Dean of Academic Affairs, and Dr. Yasser Baazab, Vice Dean for Practical Training and Community Service. The lecture witnessed strong interaction from students who raised questions and comments on transforming environmental information into impactful media content, the importance of community media in protecting marine ecosystems, and the key challenges hindering conservation efforts for sea turtles and nesting habitats along the southern shores.

Abyan – Centre Medi

Under the auspices of the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy and Training, the Abyan Women Climate Network carried out a field tree-planting campaign on Thursday morning across several vital locations in the governorate, as part of efforts to enhance women’s role in environmental protection and support climate adaptation initiatives.

The campaign began with a visit by the network to the Al-Kawd Research Centre, which provided more than fifty seedlings of various agricultural species through the efforts of the Centre’s Director, Dr. Al-Khasha’ah, who, along with the working team, ensured the availability and care of the seedlings until the time of handover. Members of the network expressed their sincere appreciation to Dr. Al-Khasha’ah and the staff for their cooperation and support of the initiative.

The network then headed to Martyrs’ Square in Zinjibar to begin the planting process, where they were welcomed by the Square's Director, Ms. Intibah Seilan, who offered notable cooperation and assisted in the planting process. She and her team pledged to protect and maintain the seedlings on a continuous basis. The network members expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and the facilitation that ensured the success of the effort.

The field activities continued with a visit to the University of Abyan, located opposite Martyrs’ Square, to plant the remaining seedlings. At the university gate, they were welcomed by Dr. Mervat Al-Sheikh, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, and Dr. Larisa Al-Sheikh, Vice Dean for Postgraduate Studies at the Faculty of Education – Zinjibar. The two sides inaugurated the planting activities on campus, affirming their support for the initiative and the university’s readiness to assist any environmental effort that serves the community.

Members of the Abyan Women Climate Network extended their appreciation to the university administration and academic staff for the warm reception and active participation in the planting efforts and in promoting environmental awareness in the governorate.

These activities come within the framework of the partnership between the network and Ruaa Centre, which continues to support community-led initiatives aimed at strengthening climate adaptation and empowering women to lead environmental and developmental efforts in Abyan Governorate.

As part of the “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project—implemented by the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting, and Training with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Projects (SGP)—Dr. Jaklin Al-Batani, Head of Ruaa Centre, held a coordination meeting on Monday with Dr. Wahib Azyban, Dean of the Faculty of Media at the University of Aden. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the two institutions in implementing awareness activities related to sea turtle conservation. This initiative forms part of the Center’s broader efforts to expand academic partnerships and promote environmental awareness among university students and the wider community.

During the meeting, both sides discussed mechanisms for engaging media students in producing diverse media content, including journalistic reports, television features, digital materials, and awareness messages highlighting the importance of protecting sea turtles and preserving coastal ecosystems. Dr. Jaklin Al-Batani emphasized that partnering with the Faculty of Media is a key step toward advancing environmental media, noting that student participation will offer practical learning opportunities and contribute to conservation efforts. For his part, Dr. Wahib Azyban reaffirmed the faculty’s readiness to support initiatives that enhance students’ practical engagement and broaden their exposure to environmental communication.

As part of this collaboration, the two sides agreed to organize an awareness lecture next week at the Faculty of Media, to be delivered by Dr. Abdullah Al-Hindi. The lecture will address the major threats facing sea turtles in the Gulf of Aden and the vital role of media in promoting environmental awareness, while presenting successful international models that can be adapted locally.

This meeting represents a continuation of Ruaa Center’s efforts to expand its outreach, strengthen the role of academic institutions in environmental advocacy, and cultivate a culture of social responsibility among University of Aden students and the community in Aden.

Al-Buraiqa / Center Media

Today, a new awareness billboard was installed at the main entrance of Al-Buraiqa district, as part of the activities of the “Save Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Projects (SGP), and implemented by Ruaa Center for Strategic Studies, Consulting, and Training.

Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, Head of Ruaa Center, affirmed that installing the billboard represents an additional step in a series of field activities aimed at promoting environmental culture. She highlighted that the project seeks to instill a broad sense of social responsibility towards the protection of sea turtles through visual messages and clear guidance reaching the widest segment of the population.

Dr. Al-Battani added that the Center will continue collaborating with all local and community stakeholders to expand awareness initiatives along the coastal areas, emphasizing the significant role this plays in reducing risks to sea turtles, and called on everyone to actively participate in protecting this important marine species.

For his part, Mr. Fouad Ahmed Awad, Head of the Community Committees in Al-Buraiqa, stressed the importance of this initiative in raising awareness among visitors and residents. He confirmed that community committees will remain active partners in all activities contributing to coastal environmental protection and educating the public on the need to respect ecosystems and preserve the coasts from damage and violations.

The awareness billboard aims to raise the awareness of residents, visitors, and drivers about the importance of protecting sea turtles, safeguarding nesting sites, and minimizing practices that threaten marine life in the Gulf of Aden.

The initiative received praise from the district’s residents, who considered the billboard an important educational message that contributes to enhancing interest in protecting sea turtles and preserving the local marine environment.

Centre’s Media

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy, and Training organized an awareness lecture on Monday, in cooperation with the local authority of Al-Buraiqah District, as part of the “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP).

The event brought together leaders of community committees, civil society organizations, activists, and fishermen to raise awareness about the importance of protecting sea turtles and preserving the marine environment of the Gulf of Aden. Participants also discussed the key challenges faced by coastal communities in this regard.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Batani, Director of Ruaa Centre, welcomed the participants and emphasized that the project represents a significant step toward safeguarding endangered marine species. She highlighted the Centre’s commitment to working collaboratively with local stakeholders to promote a culture of environmental protection.

Al-Batani expressed her appreciation for the strong community engagement in the project’s initiatives, underscoring that effective protection of sea turtles requires broad cooperation among fishermen, local communities, and authorities to achieve sustainable results.

Eng. Ahmed Rajeh, Secretary to the Director General of the District, delivered a speech welcoming Ruaa Centre and its awareness efforts. He emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships between local authorities and civil society organizations to protect the marine environment and preserve nesting sites.

Colonel Saeed Saleh Alawi, Commander of the Fourth Security Zone, reaffirmed the security forces’ commitment to supporting efforts aimed at protecting the coastline. He stressed the need to combat harmful practices affecting the marine environment and highlighted the security agencies’ responsibility to enforce the law and enhance monitoring of violators.

Dr. Jamal Bawazir, Head of the Environmental Protection Unit at Ruaa Centre, presented an overview of the Centre’s activities in marine life conservation, including field campaigns focused on protecting sea turtles and promoting environmental awareness within coastal communities.

Following that, Dr. Abdullah Al-Hindi delivered a scientific lecture in which he discussed the biological behavior of sea turtles, key nesting locations in the Gulf of Aden, and the major threats they face. He also presented practical measures to mitigate these threats by encouraging environmentally friendly practices among coastal populations.

The lecture concluded with active participation from attendees, who raised questions and shared insights on the challenges facing local fishermen and the need for stronger regulatory oversight. Participants emphasized the importance of enhancing security measures and enforcing environmental regulations to protect the coastline and vital nesting sites.

Al-Burayqah / Centre Media

As part of the “Save the Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project—and with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP)—Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy, and Training installed an awareness billboard on Thursday in the Faqm area of Al-Burayqah District. The billboard aims to raise community awareness about the importance of protecting endangered marine turtles.

This initiative comes as a continuation of the awareness activities carried out by the Centre within the project, which seeks to reduce the risks facing marine turtles during their nesting seasons and to encourage the local community and fishermen to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

Dr. Jaklin Al-Battani, head of the Ruaa Centre, explained that the billboard highlights legal provisions related to marine turtle protection, including penalties for violations, in addition to conveying messages to fishermen about the importance of avoiding tools or practices that may endanger turtles.

Al-Battani emphasized that the installation of the billboard is part of a series of initiatives that will extend to other coastal areas, with the goal of building sustainable community awareness that supports environmental efforts to preserve biodiversity in the Gulf of Aden.

The initiative was well received by local residents and fishermen, who praised the project’s efforts and its role in protecting the marine environment and promoting sustainability for future generations.

Al-Burayqah / Center Media

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy, and Training organized on Thursday an awareness lecture in Faqm area titled “Protecting Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden from Extinction Is Everyone’s Responsibility.”
The event was held with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), and in cooperation with the local authority in Al-Burayqah District.

The lecture, conducted as part of the “Save the Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, brought together a number of local fishermen with the aim of raising community awareness about their vital role in conserving marine turtles and reducing the risks threatening their survival.

At the opening of the event, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, head of the Centre, delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of promoting a culture of marine environmental conservation. She noted that ensuring the survival of turtles requires cooperation from all segments of society, especially coastal communities and fishermen.

Dr. Al-Battani added that coastal communities—particularly fishermen—serve as the first line of defense in protecting marine turtles from the threats they face, including unsafe fishing practices, marine pollution, and the disturbance of nesting sites.

For his part, marine biology researcher Rashidi Mahmoud stressed the severity of the threats facing turtles in the Gulf of Aden, calling for the adoption of safe and environmentally friendly fishing methods to help protect this endangered species.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Hindi delivered a scientific lecture in which he reviewed the biological behavior of marine turtles, their species, key nesting sites, and the measures that can be taken to reduce the risks they encounter.

The lecture also featured contributions from participants, who raised questions and offered suggestions reflecting the local community’s keen interest in actively contributing to marine conservation.
They also highlighted numerous issues faced by fishermen and coastal communities as well as harmful environmental practices, requesting the Centre's team to convey their concerns to relevant governmental and specialized authorities. They presented practical recommendations that would support the project’s success and reinforce its sustainable environmental goals.

Al-Burayqah / Centre Media

As part of the “Save the Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project—and with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP)—Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy, and Training held an awareness lecture on Thursday in cooperation with the Coastal Women’s Association in Faqm. The activity targeted women and girls from the local community with the aim of strengthening the role of women in protecting the marine environment.

During the event, the Head of the Centre, Dr. Jaklin Mansour Al-Battani, delivered a speech emphasizing that protecting marine turtles is a collective responsibility that begins within the family and the local community. She affirmed that women play a central role in reinforcing positive environmental behaviours both at home and in society.

Al-Battani explained that the project aims to enhance community awareness—especially among coastal communities—of the risks faced by turtles during the nesting season and the importance of reducing harmful practices that may threaten their survival. She noted that turtle conservation is not merely an environmental activity, but an investment in sustaining natural resources and preserving the ecological balance of the Gulf of Aden. She also stressed the importance of active participation by local communities in protecting the environment and safeguarding endangered marine turtles.

The lecture presented by Dr. Abdullah Al-Hindi covered the different species of marine turtles found in the Gulf of Aden, methods for protecting nesting sites, and ways in which women can contribute to spreading environmental awareness.
The event saw strong engagement from the participants, who raised questions and shared insights on how to support community efforts to preserve marine life. They emphasized the importance of women’s awareness and proposed additional field-based educational activities.

With the support and supervision of the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy, and Training, and with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Program (SGP) as part of the project “Save the Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden,” the Wildlife and Marine Turtle Protection Association in the Khor Omaira Reserve organized an awareness activity on Sunday for the male and female students of Khalid bin Al-Walid Primary School.

The activity, which comes as part of the association’s ongoing efforts to promote environmental awareness, focused on delivering a comprehensive lecture on the importance of marine turtles and their vital role in protecting the marine ecosystem. It also highlighted the importance of preserving coral reefs as a fundamental pillar for maintaining the natural balance of the oceans, while explaining how the deterioration of the marine environment directly affects human health and the safety of coastal communities.

The event also included a campaign of awareness posters to reinforce environmental messages directed at students, aiming to instill values of environmental responsibility in the younger generation. The association expressed its appreciation to the administration of Khalid bin Al-Walid School for its cooperation and active participation in implementing the activity.

Fathi Abdullah Sweid, Secretary-General of the Wildlife and Marine Turtle Protection Association, affirmed that these activities fall within the association’s vision to raise environmental awareness among students, emphasizing the importance of strengthening community partnerships to protect marine turtles and the coastal environment in the Khor Omaira Reserve.

As part of its ongoing efforts to protect the marine environment and promote community awareness, Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultation, and Training installed a series of warning signs and awareness posters on Saturday in the Khor Omeira area of Lahj Governorate. The activity is part of the “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP).

The posters and brochures featured awareness messages directed at residents, fishermen, and visitors, urging them not to dispose of waste or plastic materials into the waters of the bay, and advising them to avoid disturbing sea turtles during feeding and nesting periods. The materials also included guidance on the importance of preserving ecological balance along the coast.

Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Battani, head of Ruaa Centre, explained that installing these boards is a continuation of the field and awareness activities implemented by the Centre in Khor Omeira. She noted that the messages were designed in a simple and accessible way to reach all segments of society, aiming to foster positive environmental behavior among residents and visitors.

Dr. Al-Battani affirmed that Ruaa Centre will continue its efforts to implement environmental initiatives aimed at protecting sea turtles and coastal areas in the Gulf of Aden, in cooperation with relevant local and community entities.

Khor Omeira – Centre Media

The Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultation, and Training organized an awareness lecture on Saturday morning as part of the project “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden,” funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP). The initiative aims to raise community awareness about the importance of protecting Sea turtles and preserving the environment in the Khor Omeira Reserve in Lahj Governorate.

At the beginning of the lecture, titled “The Impact of Overfishing of Sea Turtles in Khor Omeira Reserve,” and held in cooperation with the Environmental Protection Authority Office in Lahj, the Turtle and Wildlife Protection Association in Khor Omeira, and the local community, Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Battani, Chairperson of the Centre, delivered the opening remarks. She welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of such awareness activities in promoting a culture of marine life protection and in addressing pollution and environmental degradation that threaten the region’s natural systems.

Dr. Al-Battani also highlighted that the Ruaa Centre pays special attention to natural reserves in the Gulf of Aden, particularly Khor Omeira, which serves as a vital habitat and breeding ground for marine turtles. She called for joint efforts between official institutions and the local community to safeguard this valuable environmental heritage.

During the event, Dr. Abdullah Al-Hindi delivered a comprehensive awareness lecture covering the different species of marine turtles, their ecological characteristics, and the major threats they face—such as plastic pollution and unregulated human activities. He also discussed practical ways to reduce these risks and the essential role of the local community in protecting them.

In conclusion, participants stressed the importance of continuing such environmental initiatives and underscored the need to raise awareness among fishermen and local residents about responsible practices toward marine turtles and wildlife in Khor Omeira.

Khor Omeira – Centre Media
Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultation, and Training carried out a comprehensive beach cleanup campaign on Saturday morning at the Khor Omeira coast in Lahj Governorate. The activity comes within the framework of the advocacy and community mobilization project “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden,” funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP).

The campaign saw the participation of the Turtle and Wildlife Protection Association in Khor Omeira, the Aden Divers Association, as well as a number of children, residents, and local fishermen, who made great efforts to remove waste and debris scattered along the shoreline. The Aden divers also contributed by cleaning the seabed of the bay from plastic waste and other debris that obstruct the turtles’ access to their nesting areas.

Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Battani, head of Ruaa Centre, stated that this campaign is part of the Centre’s ongoing efforts to raise community awareness about the importance of preserving the marine environment. She noted that Khor Omeira is one of the most important ecological sites in the Gulf of Aden and a natural habitat for endangered sea turtles.

Dr. Al-Battani emphasized that the participation of the local community and fishermen represents a positive model of cooperation between the Centre and local communities in protecting coastal ecosystems. She called for the continuation of such voluntary initiatives that contribute to the sustainability of marine life.

The campaign received wide engagement from local residents, who expressed their readiness to take part in future activities aimed at protecting Khor Omeira and preserving its unique natural features.

Aden – Ruaa Centre Media

Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Batani, Head of Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting, and Training, met today (Tuesday) with Mr. Abdulrahim Al-Jawi, Director General of Al-Mualla District, as part of the advocacy and mobilization efforts for the “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, implemented by the Centre with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP).

During the meeting, the two sides discussed several issues related to the protection of sea turtles and combating illegal practices that threaten them — including monitoring and following up on restaurants that sell turtle meat — as well as coordinating awareness campaigns targeting fishermen and coastal communities.

Dr. Al-Batani presented a detailed explanation of the project’s objectives and its field and media activities, aimed at raising environmental awareness and enhancing community participation in marine life conservation.

For his part, Mr. Al-Jawi expressed strong support for the project and affirmed the local authority’s readiness in Al-Mualla to back the Centre’s efforts and facilitate the implementation of its awareness and field programmes.

The meeting concluded with agreements to strengthen cooperation between Ruaa Centre and the Al-Mualla District Administration to help protect sea turtles and preserve the ecosystem in the Gulf of Aden.

Aden – Ruaa Centre Media

Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Batani, Head of Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy, and Training, met today (Tuesday) with Mr. Ahmed Al-Daoudi, Director General of Al-Mansoura District, in the presence of Mr. Niazi Mustafa, Director of the Environmental Protection Authority / Aden. The meeting came as part of advocacy and mobilization efforts within the “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP), and implemented by Ruaa Centre in cooperation with the Environmental Protection Authority.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed several issues related to the protection of sea turtles—most notably the sale of sea turtle meat in some restaurants—and explored ways to coordinate with relevant authorities to curb these illegal practices that violate national laws and international biodiversity protection agreements.

Dr. Al-Batani provided an overview of the campaign’s objectives and its awareness and field activities, including monitoring violations against sea turtles, organizing beach cleanup campaigns, and conducting community awareness programs in coastal areas.

For his part, Director General Al-Daoudi praised Ruaa Centre’s efforts in defending the environment and marine life, affirming the local authority’s support for all initiatives aimed at protecting the Gulf of Aden’s ecosystem. He also expressed his readiness to take legal action against non-compliant restaurants.

Aden – Ruaa Centre Media

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultancy, and Training installed awareness boards on Thursday morning in the Ras Amran area, under the direct supervision of the Centre’s Chairperson, Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Battani. This activity comes within the advocacy and community mobilization campaign of the “Save the Marine Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Small Grants Programme (SGP).

The project aims to raise environmental awareness among fishermen and the local community about the importance of protecting marine turtles and preserving their natural habitats. It also seeks to introduce the project’s goals, implementation period, and target areas, thereby empowering local communities to play an active role in carrying out the project’s activities.

Dr. Jaklin Al-Battani emphasized that installing the awareness boards is part of the Centre’s efforts to promote awareness about the protection of endangered marine species. She added that the project also works to empower local communities to select and nominate monitoring and documentation teams during the nesting season, in addition to training environmental staff and building partnerships with supporting entities.

The boards feature informative messages encouraging the protection of turtles and the prevention of tampering with their nests or harming their breeding areas, in accordance with the Law on the Regulation and Fishing of Aquatic Life. This step underscores Ruaa Centre’s commitment to enhancing environmental awareness and strengthening the role of local communities in protecting the coasts and marine life of the Gulf of Aden.

Aden – Ruaa Centre Media

Dr. Jacqueline Mansour Al-Battani, Head of the Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consulting, and Training, held an extensive meeting on Thursday in Amran with the Sea Turtle Protection Association, local fishermen, and community activists. The meeting was part of the “Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Aden” project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) through the Small Grants Programme (SGP).

In her opening remarks, Dr. Al-Battani praised the association’s outstanding role in promoting environmental awareness and protecting marine biodiversity. She reaffirmed Ruaa Centre’s commitment to supporting community-based initiatives that safeguard marine species from both natural and human-induced threats.

Dr. Al-Battani underscored the importance of local participation in the project’s implementation, noting that its success depends heavily on community engagement and collective volunteer efforts.

During the discussions, participants outlined several key challenges facing the association and local fishermen, including limited financial and logistical resources, as well as the effects of rising sea levels, which have destroyed more than 26 turtle nests, according to Mohammed Al-Suwaid, Chairman of the Sea Turtle Protection Association.

The Ruaa Centre team presented an overview of the project’s goals, scope, timeline, and target sites. They also emphasised the project’s focus on empowering local communities through training and involvement in field monitoring, documentation, and conservation activities during the nesting season.

Attendees noted a decline in violations against turtles on Al-Azizi Island thanks to awareness campaigns, while similar violations have increased along the Faqm coast, highlighting the urgent need for stronger monitoring and community enforcement across coastal areas.

At the close of the meeting, participants expressed their appreciation to the Ruaa Centre for its continued efforts since 2021 in supporting turtle conservation and promoting environmental awareness. They commended the Centre’s role in fostering collaboration with the Amran Sea Turtle Protection Association, which has helped strengthen local capacity to protect marine life in the Gulf of Aden.

Abyan – Centre Media

Ruaa Centre for Strategic Studies, Consultations, and Training concluded a training course on Thursday titled "From Fragility to Resilience: Training Community Female Leaders to Lead Climate Adaptation in Abyan." The course was implemented as part of a project supported by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Berghof Foundation, and supervised by the Political Development Forum.

The closing day featured a comprehensive session dedicated to reviewing the training's outcomes and practical outputs, discussing ways to enhance local climate action, along with future recommendations aimed at raising environmental awareness and empowering women in the fields of sustainable development.

In a speech delivered during the closing ceremony, Dr. Jaklin Mansoor Al-Batani, Head of Ruaa Centre, emphasized that the course represents a qualitative step towards building the capacities of women to lead community climate action. She praised the interaction and commitment of the participants throughout the training days and confirmed that the Centre will continue to implement programs that contribute to entrenching the concepts of climate peace and environmental justice in the local community.

Al-Batani expressed her pride in the enthusiasm and understanding of climate adaptation and sustainable development concepts demonstrated by the female leaders, stressing the importance of continuing such programs to become community platforms for positive change and the empowerment of women in the field of environmental leadership.

The closing ceremony for the five-day course included the distribution of participation and appreciation certificates to the trainees, in an atmosphere filled with positive interaction and gratitude for the supporting and implementing entities.

The participants expressed their happiness with the training content, which enabled them to acquire new knowledge about climate adaptation, greenhouses, institutional capacity building, and environmental peace. They also affirmed their commitment to continuing their work for the climate and establishing a women's network among the participants to coordinate and organize their efforts. This network aims to contribute to raising community environmental awareness and launching community initiatives to protect the environment and adapt to climate changes.