Plant A Ghaf
Ghaf Tree Planting Programme – fostering environmental awareness, cultural heritage, education, and community engagement through appreciation/planting of the Ghaf and other indigenous species.
In the early 1970s, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates, embarked on a programme of “greening‟ the desert.In 2010, Goumbook decided to follow the vision of the country’s Leadership and to raise awareness on the Living Desert and the multitude of species growing naturally in it such as the Ghaf tree, the UAE National Tree, also named the Union Tree by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.The Give a Ghaf tree planting programme was officially launched in 2011 by Goumbook to raise public awareness about the Ghaf tree and its values, while encouraging people to plant indigenous trees and save water.
Abu Dhabi’s Environment Agency, in collaboration with Healthtech firm M42, has embarked on an innovative study delving into the genetic resilience of the ghaf tree, the UAE’s national tree. This exploration aims to decode the genetic characteristics that empower the ghaf to thrive in arid climates, offering crucial insights into conservation strategies amid the challenges of climate change. This research holds particular significance for initiatives like Goumbook’s Give A Ghaf and Regenerative Agriculture program, as it offers crucial knowledge that can enhance their tree planting initiatives and advance sustainable agricultural practices. By understanding the genetic makeup of the ghaf tree, these programs can make more informed decisions about species selection and cultivation methods, ultimately contributing to preserving the environment and promoting regenerative land management practices.Scientifically referred to as Prosopis cineraria, the ghaf tree has long been recognized for its robustness, playing a vital role in stabilizing desert soil and providing a haven for wildlife. With an average lifespan of 120 years, the ghaf has been a significant part of traditional practices, serving as fodder for livestock and revered for its alleged medicinal properties.Utilising advanced genome sequencing technology from Oxford Nanopore Technologies, a team of environmental scientists led by Dr. Wael Elamin at M42 conducted a comprehensive study, shedding light on the genetic makeup of the ghaf tree.Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi, Deputy Group Chief Operating Officer at M42, emphasized the profound connection between human and environmental health. The initiative seeks to deepen our understanding of the genetic adaptations that enable the ghaf tree to thrive, contributing to the preservation of the UAE’s natural heritage. Read more
