Exploration Hike of Al-Rayhan

Following Naqoura and the first stops of the "Southern Coast Trail," including the exploration from Al-Burghliya Beach to the Tyre Coastal Reserve via Al-Abbasiya Beach which the Green Southerners team, in cooperation with the Al-Abbasiya Municipality, is seeking to declare as a nature reserve, and the fourth Zibqin Hike, the Gray Wolf Club of the Green South Association organized its fourth activity of the year yesterday, Sunday, to explore Southern Al-Rayhan in the Jezzine District.

The event was sponsored by the municipality of the town, whose head, Sheikh Hussein Ismail Al-Faqih, along with municipal council members Fadi Ayoub and Hassan Brou, welcomed the participants. Sheikh Al-Faqih gave a welcoming speech, followed by logistical coordinator Fadi Sweidan, who thanked the municipality for hosting and cooperating. Fifty environmental activists of various ages from different parts of southern Lebanon participated in the hike.

The participants walked through the forests of the area, distinguished by ancient pine, oak, walnut, chestnut, fig, and olive trees. They also visited the town’s cave, which, along with the Nabeh Al-Shatwi Cave, is considered one of the most important caves in Lebanon. Explorer Habib Helou, a member of the "Lebanese Speleology Club," explained to the participants the unique features of the Al-Rayhan caves, especially the Nabeh Al-Shatwi Cave. Additionally, association member and trainer Abbas Balbaki provided an explanation of the dangers of plastic waste on nature, animals, and their habitats.

This was followed by a presentation of the goals, projects, and achievements of the Green Southerners team by activist Mohamed Neshat Bzeih, who renewed thanks to the municipality and reaffirmed the Green Southerners organisation’s stance in supporting the municipality and opposing the renewal of quarries that have caused significant damage to the natural environment and forests of Al-Rayhan.

The hike concluded with a tour of the town’s heritage alleys, the public garden, and the town square, where the municipality prepared a welcoming "municipal breakfast" for the participants.