Aqaba, April 14 (Petra) -- For the second consecutive year, Jordan has secured its place in the global marine conservation community through its participation in the world's largest annual sea turtle symposium.

Abeer Bilbeisi, founder and chairman of the Jordan Society for the Conservation of Turtles and Tortoises (JSCT), represented the Kingdom at the International Sea Turtle Symposium held in Accra, Ghana from March 22-27. The event, organized by the International Sea Turtle Society (ISTS), brought together over 300 experts, scientists, and conservationists from 58 countries.

Bilbeisi, who also serves on the Species Survival Commission of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as part of the Marine Turtle Specialist Group for the Middle East and Indian Ocean Region, delivered a well-received presentation on Jordan's marine conservation efforts.


Her presentation, "Towards Effective Restoration of Marine Turtles in Jordan's Aqaba Coast Line," detailed the first phase of a JSCT initiative implemented in October 2024. The project trained Royal Jordanian Navy personnel and local fishermen in bycatch reduction measures and safe handling practices for sea turtles caught incidentally.

"The project's practical approach to conservation has shown immediate benefits," said Bilbeisi. "By equipping naval vessels and fishing boats with specialized rescue kits, supported by Jordan Kuwait Bank, we've created a network of first responders capable of protecting these endangered species."

Bilbeisi also presented findings from a collaborative survey conducted with British international expert Prof. Alan Rees in November 2024, which identified potential sea turtle nesting sites along Jordan's coastline in Aqaba.

Andrews Agyekumhene, ISTS President and lecturer at the University of Ghana's Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, praised Jordan's participation.

"This year's symposium theme of 'Unity and Collaboration' emphasized the need for global cooperation in sea turtle conservation," said Agyekumhene. "We were privileged to have Bilbeisi participate in this historic event only the second time in our 43-year history that Jordan has been represented at an ISTS symposium."

Agyekumhene further emphasized his support for Bilbeisi's conservation efforts and expressed willingness to provide scientific research assistance for sea turtle protection initiatives in Jordan and the broader region.


While in Ghana, Bilbeisi engaged in hands-on conservation activities, participating in the release of Olive Ridley sea turtle hatchlings into the Atlantic Ocean. In a symbolic gesture, she carried the Jordanian flag across the beach during the release, highlighting Jordan's commitment to global marine conservation.

Bilbeisi also assisted in rescuing a female Olive Ridley sea turtle that had become stranded on coastal defense rocks, successfully returning it to the ocean.

Her distinctive attire at the symposium featuring her own design that depicted a hawksbill turtle entangled in fishing nets, lines, and hooks drew attention from international participants and was praised for effectively communicating the dangers of bycatch, considered the greatest global threat to sea turtles.

During the symposium, attendees viewed the first film showcasing Jordan's role in protecting endangered sea turtles through JSCT's programs and initiatives.

The symposium covered a wide range of disciplines including science, veterinary medicine, education, public policy, and grassroots conservation efforts. This year marked the first time in the society's 42-year history that the event was held on the African continent.

"Jordan's continuing engagement with the international sea turtle conservation community strengthens our position as a regional leader in marine protection," Bilbeisi noted. "The knowledge and connections gained at this symposium will directly benefit our conservation programs in the Gulf of Aqaba."

Founded 43 years ago, the International Sea Turtle Society works to promote the conservation of sea turtles and their habitats worldwide through annual symposia that facilitate information exchange among the world's foremost experts in sea turtle science and conservation.

//Petra// AA

14/04/2025 12:24:55