Basra volunteers plant ‘forest of immortality’ to honor lost loved ones with tamarisk trees

BASRA — Basra is witnessing renewed efforts to revive the tamarisk tree, a historically significant species nearly eradicated by decades of conflict. In an initiative to preserve this tree and commemorate lost loved ones, 60 volunteers have launched the “Forest of Immortality” project, where families plant tamarisk trees in memory of their deceased relatives. The forest is being cultivated near Jabal Sanam, a unique landmark close to the Kuwaiti border in southern Iraq.

Ali Qasim, the project’s originator, explained to 964media, “The idea for the ‘Forest of Immortality’ was first shared on social media, quickly gaining public support.” He continued, “Our goal is to honour the deceased by planting 100 tamarisk trees, each funded by donors who cover maintenance costs for two years.”

The initiative has garnered support from Safwan’s local authorities, who allocated land for this “miniature tamarisk forest.” The project team has also rented a well and coordinated with a local farmer to care for the trees.

Tamarisk trees, known for their resilience in arid climates, are salt-tolerant plants native to the Middle East and North Africa and valued for their drought resistance and deep-root systems that help combat soil erosion.

Qasim highlighted the choice of tamarisk for its durability in harsh desert conditions and deep roots in the region’s history. “If someone wants their name remembered for over a hundred years, they should plant a tamarisk,” he said.

Volunteer Sarah Elia expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We’ve long wanted to green Basra with youth-led initiatives, and this idea has become a reality. This project will benefit the environment, reduce dust, and with ongoing support, Basra will become more beautiful day by day.”

Another volunteer, Abbas Obeid, added, “The ‘Forest of Immortality’ started as a simple idea. We launched the campaign a month ago by gathering supplies, selecting a site, and developing a work plan. Planting began last week and continues today.”