Mosul resident transforms neglected land into thriving green space

MOSUL — A once-neglected 75-square-meter plot of land in the Al-Zanjili area of Mosul, has been transformed into a thriving green space. Located on Pepsi Factory Street, the land was revitalized by local Inad Dawood, who began planting trees in 2018.

Today, the site boasts over 40 trees, primarily the fast-growing Leucaena species, known for its resilience. The Leucaena trees have shown rapid growth since late 2022, with seeds naturally germinating and sprouting during the growing season under consistent care.

Dawood has personally removed and potted saplings, distributing them free of charge to individuals and institutions in the city.

In 2023 alone, he distributed 700 saplings, followed by another 600 at the start of 2024. During the recent planting season in autumn 2024, he provided an additional 600 saplings and currently has 1,000 more ready for distribution.

Speaking to 964media, by Inad Dawood stated, “I had a hobby of planting trees, and in 2018, I began utilizing a plot of land belonging to Badr Al-Kubra School in front of my house, where I planted various types of trees. However, the Leucaena tree is the most preferred because it grows and propagates quickly and is resistant to both heat and cold.”

Dawood emphasized the importance of legal protection for trees. “Leucaena is a suitable tree for Iraq’s climate. It’s fast-growing, drought-resistant, and its leaves enrich the soil as organic fertilizer. Its seeds also serve as a food source for birds and wild animals,” he said.

To sustain the trees, Dawood has installed a dedicated irrigation system and supplements rainfall with weekly watering during the dry season. Despite limited rainfall, his efforts have ensured the survival and growth of the trees.

“Everything I provide is through my own efforts, and I call for the enforcement of environmental protection laws and the criminalization of tree cutting,” he added.

Dawood’s contributions are part of larger reforestation efforts in Nineveh. Anas Al-Taie, leader of a local tree-planting initiative, Muthabirun Foundation, highlighted Dawood’s role in supporting community-driven projects. “He has provided us with hundreds of Leucaena saplings over the past two seasons. Its resilience and high seed production make it ideal for rural areas with livestock.”

Leucaena is a fast-growing tree species native to Central and South America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family. Known for its resilience, Leucaena thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, tolerating drought, high temperatures, and poor soils.