Protect Our Coast, Sustain Our Tourism – Awareness and Educational Campaign on Hamama Coast in Libya
The Marine Biology Society of Libya, in partnership with the Sustainable Blue Economy Initiative in the Western Mediterranean (WestMED), hosted a special awareness day for children from the Africa Charity Association for Orphans on the beautiful Hamama coast – one of the most touristic beaches in Libya. This event took place on August 30, 2025.
After learning about the impacts of plastic pollution on the marine environment, the children took part in a beach cleanup, followed by coloring activities and interactive games to foster environmental awareness and responsibility.
Given the success of this event, a 2nd day the week after, was organised whereby the Red Crescent youth together with the local football club were involved. Because of the attention it received on national television and interest generated – more events will be planned at different locations, a.o. in Tripoli.
Ongoing campaign
This event is part of an ongoing educational and awareness campaign “Protect Our Coast, Sustain Our Tourism.” The objective of this campaign is to raise awareness about marine pollution and coastal degradation, encourage community involvement in conservation efforts and showcase sustainable tourism as a tool for environmental protection
The organisers would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of this event: The team at Africa Charity Association for Orphans, Management of Rina Family Resort, BRIO team and Media representative Suleiman Abdelkarim Al-Khashbi.
Scientific webinar
Also, as part of this campaign a scientific seminar was organised on September 6 at the headquarters of the Marine Biology in Libya Society, addressing key issues related to the blue economy, sustainable marine resources, and coastal environmental protection.
Dr. Masouda Abuarosha delivered an introductory presentation on the WESTMED Initiative, which brings together ten Mediterranean countries to foster regional cooperation in blue economy sectors, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable marine resource management.
Dr. Abdelghani Al-Kalloush gave a lecture on marine pollution, highlighting its main sources and strategies for mitigation, while emphasizing the crucial role of local communities and relevant institutions in tackling these growing environmental challenges.
Dr. Ahmed Issa, Professor of Archaeology at Omar Al-Mukhtar University, presented on coastal eco-tourism, stressing its potential as a pillar of sustainable economic development—provided that natural resources and cultural identity are preserved.
This initiative reflects the Association’s commitment to raising environmental awareness and promoting sustainable tourism models that contribute to the protection of Libya’s coasts and support a balanced, prosperous future for coastal communities.
The organisers reaffirm their dedication to collaborative work with academic institutions, government bodies, and civil society, in pursuit of a healthy marine environment and a resilient blue economy that serves Libya and the wider region.
More information
For more information about these events and/ or the campaign in general, please contact
– Masauda Abuarosha (WestMED Libya): libya@westmed-initiative.ec.europa.eu
– Sara Almabruk (Marine Biology Society of Libya): sara.almabruk@mb.org.ly
National TV coverage
This initiative received extensive TV coverage in Libya via WASAT TV – see recording below
