Green urban initiative on Kuwait's Second Ring Road first of many to come: Ahmadi Governor

Kuwait Times

21-06-2025

KUWAIT: Kuwait has unveiled the results of its first green urban development initiative under the Green Urban Development Initiatives Committee, with a beautification and planting project along sections of the Second Ring Road. 'This marks the beginning of our committee's work,' said Sheikh Humoud Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Governor of Ahmadi and Chairman of the committee, during an inspection tour of the project on Saturday. 'Similar initiatives will follow across various locations throughout Kuwait.'
The beautification project, proposed by engineer Haifa Al-Muhanna and generously funded by residents of Shuwaikh residential area and surrounding neighborhoods, aims to transform a heavily trafficked stretch of roadway into a visually appealing and environmentally friendly space. 'This is nothing new for the Kuwaiti people,' Sheikh Hammoud said, praising the spirit of community engagement. 'We invite all those interested in contributing to greening and beautification efforts in all governorates to visit the committee's website https://gudi.gov.kw or our accounts on X and Instagram (@gudikuwait). These projects improve the visual landscape, reduce pollution, and enhance quality of life.'
KUWAIT: Thousands of plants, including palm trees, were planted as part of the project.
Imported palm trees
The first and second phases of the Second Ring Road beutification initiative began on April 14 and continued for three months. The project included the planting of thousands of hardy plants adapted to Kuwait's climate. Among them are date palms, Tecoma, Pennisetum, and red oleander, chosen for their resilience and aesthetic appeal. The palm trees were especially imported with uniform heights to maintain visual harmony. A full irrigation network was also installed to ensure sustainability. 'The palm trees used in the project are non-fruiting to make maintenance easier along major roads,' Al-Muhanna explained. 'We also enhanced the soil quality to support the long-term health and appearance of the plantings.'
Spanning 1.46 kilometers and covering two roundabouts, the project reflects Kuwait's broader environmental vision, said Capital Governor Sheikh Abdullah Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah, who also joined the tour. 'This initiative represents a major step in promoting environmental sustainability,' he said. 'It's part of a nationwide effort to create healthier and greener urban spaces that improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and raise environmental awareness.'
Falah Al-Enezi, Acting Deputy Director General for Beautification at the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources. — KUNA photos
Officials plant flowers as part of an inspection tour of the first green urban development initiative on Saturday.
Sheikh Humoud Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah
Sheikh Abdullah Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah
Supporting the initiative, Falah Al-Enezi, Acting Deputy Director General for Beautification at the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources, said the authority is committed to offering logistical and technical support for such efforts. 'This kind of collaboration increases Kuwait's green footprint and contributes to environmental development,' he said. Al-Muhanna thanked the local community for their support and expressed appreciation for Sheikh Humoud's direct involvement and follow-up on the project's implementation. 'The support from both residents and officials has been key in delivering this project to a high standard,' she said.
The initiative is the first major undertaking by the Green Urban Development Initiatives Committee, formed in August 2024 by ministerial decree. The committee includes senior representatives from Kuwait's agriculture authority, housing and infrastructure agencies, the Ministry of Electricity and Water, the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, and civil society leaders, among others. The committee's mission is to align urban development with global sustainability trends, creating greener, healthier communities throughout Kuwait. — Agencies