Ooredoo Algeria, Volunteer Action Association Lead Major Cleanup Effort at Theniet El Had National Park – Photos
✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | June 9th, 2024 — In a concerted effort to preserve the unique natural heritage of Theniet El Had National Park, Ooredoo Algeria and the Volunteer Action Association organized a significant cleanup operation focusing on the renowned El Meddad Forest, home to the rare Atlas Cedar species. The initiative, conducted just before the summer season, aimed to mitigate the risk of wildfires by removing glass and plastic waste from the area.
“We organized this operation in the national park at Theniet El Had, particularly in the El Meddad Forest, known for its unique Atlas Cedar, a species exclusive to this region,” said Ramdane Djazairi, Ooredoo’s Director of Institutional Affairs. “The operation involves collecting waste within the forest, especially ahead of the summer season, as glass and plastic waste can potentially ignite fires.”
Ahmed Melha, President of the Volunteer Action Association, emphasized the importance of environmental citizenship. “This is a message to the visitors of this park to always clean up the areas they visit. This is an integral part of environmental citizenship because this park is a symbol of Western and Central Algeria, featuring rare trees like the Atlas Cedar. Preserving our environment is everyone’s responsibility.”
Abdelrazak Lehmar, Director of Theniet El Had National Park, highlighted the importance of awareness and education in protecting the park, which attracts over 190,000 visitors annually. “Given the large number of tourists, this initiative also serves as a means of raising awareness. The park has a dedicated department for this work, and we carry out such operations every year to convey this message to the local communities and visitors.”
This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of Ooredoo Algeria, local volunteers, and park authorities to safeguarding the unique natural heritage of Theniet El Had National Park and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among visitors and the local community.
Theniet El Had National Park: A Natural Gem in Algeria’s Atlas Mountains
Located near the town of Theniet El Had in the Tissemsilt province of northwestern Algeria, Theniet El Had National Park is a significant Algerian national park nestled in the heart of the Tell Atlas and at the southern edge of the sprawling Ouarsenis mountain range. Encompassing an area of 3,425 hectares, this park boasts vast forests of Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica) along with a rich variety of flora and fauna. Additionally, it offers excellent opportunities for hiking and exploration.
Park Description
The Cedar Forest of Theniet El Had spans 3,424 hectares, with 1,000 hectares dedicated to cedar trees in the Ouarsenis Massif of the Tell Atlas. Established by decree in 1983, the national park replaced a smaller reserve designated in 1929. Notable features include Ras El Braret, the highest peak at 1,787 meters, and Kef Siga at 1,784 meters, characterized by its towering rock formations and iconic Atlas Cedars. The park entrance near Theniet El Had opens into a vast clearing surrounded by ancient cedar trees, adorned with a forest house and the historic Chalet Jourdan, built in 1887. Noteworthy trees like the “Soltana” and “Sultan” cedars, with trunks measuring over 9 meters in circumference, add to the park’s allure.
Wildlife
Theniet El Had National Park is a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna, some of which are endangered species crucial for global biodiversity conservation. Mammals, such as Wild Boars, Wildcats, and Hedgehogs, as well as various bird species including the Black Kite and Bonelli’s Eagle, thrive within the park’s boundaries. The park’s rich biodiversity contributes significantly to the protection of endangered species and the preservation of global wildlife diversity.
Tourism
Tourists are drawn to Theniet El Had National Park for its stunning landscapes, including the Cedar Forest and panoramic views from peaks like Kef Siga, where the Mediterranean Sea is visible on clear days. Traditional rural life persists in the region, with seasonal festivities like fantasias celebrating cultural and religious events. The park offers numerous marked trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as camping facilities near Theniet El Had. In winter, activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing attract outdoor enthusiasts.
Cultural Significance
The park’s cultural significance is underscored by the presence of ancient rock art sites like Kasria, located in the Sidi Boutouchent commune on the park’s southern slopes. These rock paintings offer insights into the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage, adding another dimension to the park’s appeal.
In summary, Theniet El Had National Park stands as a testament to Algeria’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the splendor of the Atlas Mountains and immerse themselves in the region’s rich biodiversity and cultural traditions.
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