Asmara — President Isaias Afwerki today presented an emblem to the staff members of the newly set up National Agency for Protection of Forest and Wildlife Resources.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony within the premises of the Ministry of Agriculture, the President noted the significance of establishing such an Agency to promote environmental protection, preservation of forest and wildlife resources, soil and water conservation, as well as different programs towards achieving food security and agricultural development at large. President Isaias further called on all those engaged in the task to demonstrate diligence and dynamism so as to attain the set goal. He also expressed appreciation to EDF members and students taking part in the program.

The Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Arefaine Berhe, on his part outlined the major activities underway to promote and preserve the nation's natural resources in general and forest as well as wildlife in particular.

Reports indicated that a total of 142 individuals from the Ministry of Agriculture and Defense Force have received necessary training and would be deployed to 39 stations in all the administrative regions, as an initial step to accomplish the envisaged task.