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Saudi: National Center for Wildlife Releases 132 Animal Species into NEOM Nature Reserve

The National Center for Wildlife, in collaboration with NEOM, has released a total of 132 species into the NEOM Nature Reserve. SPA
The National Center for Wildlife, in collaboration with NEOM, has released a total of 132 species into the NEOM Nature Reserve. SPA
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Saudi: National Center for Wildlife Releases 132 Animal Species into NEOM Nature Reserve

The National Center for Wildlife, in collaboration with NEOM, has released a total of 132 species into the NEOM Nature Reserve. SPA
The National Center for Wildlife, in collaboration with NEOM, has released a total of 132 species into the NEOM Nature Reserve. SPA

Saudi Arabia's National Center for Wildlife, in collaboration with NEOM, has released a total of 132 species into the NEOM Nature Reserve.

The initiative aims to rehabilitate and ensure the adaptation of these species to their new environment before releasing them into the wild. The released species consist of 80 Arabian sand gazelles, 12 mountain gazelles, 12 ibexes, and 28 Arabian Oryx.

National Center for Wildlife CEO Dr Mohammed Qurban said that the release is part of the center's comprehensive program aimed at preserving and relocating endangered species native to the region. He added that the program focuses on rehabilitating ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity throughout the Kingdom.

Qurban emphasized that this program aligns with the Saudi Green Initiative and the national strategy for environmental conservation, contributing to the fulfilment of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives.

Since its establishment, the National Center for Wildlife has executed comprehensive strategies to safeguard wildlife, conserve biodiversity, restore ecosystems, and promote sustainability. As the designated national authority overseeing wildlife conservation and development, the center undertakes the vital task of reintroducing endangered species to their native habitats. It employs advanced techniques for monitoring and surveying biodiversity within protected areas, including tracking wildlife populations, documenting reserve-specific information, collecting data, and comprehending the potential challenges and risks confronted by wildlife.

Covering an area of 25,000 square kilometers, the NEOM Nature Reserve is dedicated to establishing a balanced ecosystem and fostering biodiversity through innovative solutions and cutting-edge technologies in conjunction with research institutions.

This concerted effort aims to tackle the pressing challenges endangering our planet, including the alarming decline in biodiversity and the looming threat of species extinction. By doing so, the NEOM Nature Reserve contributes to the safeguarding and preservation of natural environments.

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7 Drinks That Boost Your Brain Health Naturally

Green tea contains compounds beneficial for the brain (Reuters)
Green tea contains compounds beneficial for the brain (Reuters)
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7 Drinks That Boost Your Brain Health Naturally

Green tea contains compounds beneficial for the brain (Reuters)
Green tea contains compounds beneficial for the brain (Reuters)

Caring for brain health is not limited to mental exercises and good sleep; it also extends to the foods and beverages we consume on a daily basis.

Certain natural drinks contain nutrients and antioxidants that play an important role in supporting brain function, enhancing memory and concentration, and protecting against cognitive decline associated with aging.

Below are some of the most notable drinks that may help support brain health in a natural and simple way, according to the scientific website Verywell Health:

Green Tea

Green tea contains compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been studied for potential benefits related to metabolic health, aging, and immune support. Green tea has been widely studied for its effects on brain health. Regular consumption appears to be more beneficial than occasional use.

Green tea contains catechins, antioxidants that may reduce oxidative stress in the brain. It also provides L-theanine, an amino acid linked to improved attention and calm focus, especially when combined with small amounts of caffeine.

Coffee

Coffee is a major dietary source of antioxidants, and its effects on brain health have been widely studied.
In the short term, the caffeine in coffee works by inhibiting adenosine, a neurotransmitter that contributes to promoting drowsiness. This effect may temporarily improve alertness, reaction speed, and concentration.

Observational studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption, in the long term, may be associated with a reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline.

Blueberry Smoothies

Blueberries are rich in flavonoids, especially anthocyanins, which are plant compounds linked to brain health. Research indicates that regular consumption of blueberries may support memory, learning, and overall cognitive functions by helping to protect brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Blending blueberries into smoothies or drinks helps retain many of their beneficial compounds while making them easy to consume regularly.

Beet Juice

Beetroot contains a combination of dietary nitrate, betalains, and polyphenols that may support brain health. Research suggests these compounds help improve blood flow, support antioxidant defenses, and influence processes involved in cognitive decline. Dietary nitrate from beetroot increases nitric oxide, which helps improve blood flow to the brain. Research suggests nitrate-rich foods may support brain blood flow and be linked to slower cognitive decline, while other beetroot compounds may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Most studies are small, and more research is needed to confirm long-term benefits.

Turmeric Golden Milk

Turmeric contains curcumin, a plant compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research suggests that curcumin may help protect brain cells by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are associated with cognitive decline. Curcumin also affects pathways involved in memory and learning. However, it is poorly absorbed on its own, limiting the amount that reaches the brain.

Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate juice is rich in polyphenols, plant compounds with powerful antioxidant effects. Research indicates that these compounds may help protect brain cells by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are associated with cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Preliminary studies conducted on animals suggest that pomegranate compounds may also support healthy blood flow to the brain by increasing nitric oxide production. These effects combined may support brain function over time.

Omega-3-Fortified Drinks

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are essential for normal brain function, as they help support communication between brain cells. Drinks fortified with DHA and EPA may help people increase their intake of these important fats.

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Qassim Falcons Festival Concludes with Record Attendance

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA
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Qassim Falcons Festival Concludes with Record Attendance

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA

The Qassim Falcons Festival concluded yesterday in Al-Asyah Governorate, with 675 falconers from various Arab countries and over 20,000 visitors and 15 local families attending, contributing to the festival’s economic and social activities, SPA reported.

This edition of the festival featured numerous competitions and programs that attracted falconry enthusiasts and reinforced its status as one of the region’s premier heritage events.

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Ethiopia Must Suspend Biggest Gold Mine over Toxic Chemicals

Mine workers stand underground at Gold Fields' South Deep mine, south-west of Johannesburg, South Africa October 12, 2022. REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File Photo
Mine workers stand underground at Gold Fields' South Deep mine, south-west of Johannesburg, South Africa October 12, 2022. REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File Photo
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Ethiopia Must Suspend Biggest Gold Mine over Toxic Chemicals

Mine workers stand underground at Gold Fields' South Deep mine, south-west of Johannesburg, South Africa October 12, 2022. REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File Photo
Mine workers stand underground at Gold Fields' South Deep mine, south-west of Johannesburg, South Africa October 12, 2022. REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File Photo

Work at Ethiopia's largest gold mine must be suspended to protect nearby children from the toxic chemicals it has released into the soil, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said Thursday.

Operations at the Lega Dembi mine, around 500 kilometres (310 miles) south of the capital Addis Ababa, were halted by authorities in 2018 following protests from locals over pollution.

The government promised to reopen the mine only after environmental concerns had been addressed, but did so in 2021 "without public announcement" and "quashed publication of a government health study", said HRW in a statement.

The rights group said several studies had revealed high concentrations of toxic chemicals including cadmium, mercury, lead and arsenic.

Residents had "for years complained about serious health impacts, including children born with long-term health conditions, miscarriages, and stillbirths".

The campaign group urged the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, due to meet soon, to press Ethiopia to suspend mining operations and "ensure victims of abuse are provided effective remedy, including compensation, medical care, and access to justice".

The Ethiopian government did not respond to a request for comment from AFP.

Ethiopia, the continent's second most populous country with some 130 million inhabitants, is regularly criticised by NGOs for human rights abuses.

But mining is crucial to a country in which more than 40 percent live below the poverty line, with gold exports generating $2.1 billion in the first nine months of 2024, according to the latest figures from the mining ministry.