RIYADH: Local and foreign companies said their farewells following the Hima protected areas forum. The forum, which was organized by the National Center for Wildlife, took place in Riyadh from April 21-24. The event showcased topics related to efforts made by the Kingdom in the conservation field, and included various discussions, workshops, and presentations. The concept of protecting and preserving natural habitats and wildlife dates back to the pre-Islamic era, when Bedouins in the Arabian Peninsula would cultivate land and claim ownership. Those who cultivated plants on a specific piece of land could eventually claim ownership of that land. Hasan Nasser Salman Al-Nasser, an agricultural specialist at the Environment Agency, said: “It is an area of special interest, designated by a legislature to be used for agriculture. This concept dates back to the pre-Islamic era.” Al-Nasser explained the concept of “hima,” which means a protected area, and how it evolved over time, ultimately reaching its current understanding in Saudi Arabia. He said: “The first hima protected during the time of Islam by the Prophet was a natural reserve used for horses. “During the time of Khalifah Omar, there were the hima of Al-Sur and Alrabathah. After that, each tribe was responsible for protecting their natural reserves.” The forum featured the participation of several official entities and projects, including NEOM, Red Sea Global, and Catmosphere. A community-led organization, the Northern Rangelands Trust, was also present. Issa Ismail Gedi, chief programs officer at the Kenya-based Northern Rangelands Trust, said: “When I was in primary school, I used to help my family. Wildlife has been thriving on our land, alongside our livestock.” The organization focuses on building resilient community conservation regions that transform lives and help the natural environment. The body has safeguarded a number of areas, including national parks in Kenya. Gedi said the organization is also supporting 50 to 60 percent of wildlife located outside protected areas. The forum was the first of its kind, and hosted by the National Center for Wildlife and supported by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture. The event provided an opportunity for local and international experts to share their expertise, with the aim of exchanging information and discussing outcomes to develop strategies for better preserving and protecting Saudi Arabia’s nature and wildlife.