Updates on local development initiatives in rural areas

As part of local community development initiatives undertaken in rural areas, the municipality of Duma, in cooperation with Lebanon Mountain Trail and Douma Festivals Committee, launched last Sunday the side track of the mountain trail in the town, located in the caza of Batroon. This came as part of the Lebanon Industry Value Chain Development (LIVCD) project funded by the US Agency for International Development (USAID). The Duma side track (about 13.5 kms) is one of many paths the Mountain Trail association is seeking to create in collaboration with local municipalities to revive rural tourism, through trekking and hiking, while highlighting the charm of Mount Lebanon countryside. In the same vein, and as part of the 2016 summer activities organized by the municipality, the Pottery Artisans Coop in Rashayya Fokhar concluded yesterday the first workshop for teaching pottery craft targeting youth and children. The aim of the course is to preserve the traditional craft and raise a new generation willing to learn and practice the trade. In this respect, and due to increasing demand, the Cooperative has decided to open another session this coming September at its premises in Rashayya Fokhar, caza of Hasbaya. Also on the same day, the culture committee for Ain Z7halta municipality organized a 4-week drawing course for a number of young men and women of all ages. The course covered the art of oil and water painting, as well as glass and pottery painting, and closed with an exhibition showcasing the creations and art works of participants. The exhibition is expected to last until September 1. (As Safir, Al Diyar, Al Mustaqbal, August 30, 2016)