Kurdish environmentalist donates 4,000 saplings to reforest Duhok mountain

DUHOK — A Kurdish environmental activist from Shiladze, located in the Amadiya district of Duhok Governorate in Iraqi Kurdistan, has donated 4,000 saplings as part of an initiative to reforest Mount Maqlub, situated in the Shekhan district of Nineveh governorate. The saplings, intended to be planted in the coming months, represent a personal contribution to preserving the region’s natural environment.

Zakia Mohammed Doski, the activist behind the initiative, told 964media: “I had previously called for a campaign to green Mount Maqlub, but when no saplings were provided, I took the initiative myself and sourced them.”

She added, “In the past, I’ve collected similar saplings from the mountains of Shirin, Zebar, and Shiladze, with the goal of planting them in these areas.”

While Shiladze belongs to the Amadiya district in Duhok Governorate and Mount Maqlub lies within the Shekhan district of Nineveh governorate—two areas without direct administrative ties—Zakia emphasized her determination to proceed. “Mount Maqlub needs to be revitalized, and that’s why I decided to contribute.”

On Monday, the 4,000 saplings were carefully prepared by a volunteer team, with support from Shekhan district’s agricultural authorities. The saplings were wrapped in plastic sheeting and placed under shade to ensure they remain healthy and ready for planting.

The official planting day is scheduled for Feb. 15, 2025. Agricultural engineers will oversee the planting process to ensure the saplings are properly placed and cared for.

Zakia, who has dedicated several years to environmental preservation, shared her motivation: “I am the sister of three martyrs [killed Peshmerga soldiers], and I want my efforts to honor their memory and bring peace to their souls.”