Bahrain: Grow Your Oasis – Eman Shaker’s rooftop
A recent UN survey found 40% of Bahraini home gardeners use their rooftops! This weekend, ditch the houseplants and join the rooftop revolution.
By Ashen Tharaka
The Daily Tribune
February 09, 2024
Excerpt:
Retired physiotherapist Eman Shaker, once limited by space and sun, now flourishes on her rooftop farm.
“Moving everything was intimidating, but now it’s my haven!” she beams, nurturing new seeds even between seasons. Marketing whiz Ahmed AlHayki started with a single pepper seedling.
“YouTube became my teacher,” he smiles, his rooftop now boasting veggies and even fruit trees. Both transformed their once “dead space” into vibrant life.
The UN and Bahrain’s government are teaming up to make cities greener, healthier places. “Rooftop farming improves air quality, combats heat, and offers urban residents a green escape,” explains Dr. Fernanda Lonardoni, Head of UN-Habitat Bahrain.
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) also supports Bahrain’s “National Afforestation Plan” to green its urban areas.
“We encourage sustainable agriculture for a greener future,” says Lonardoni.
