Abu Dhabi bans cultivation of oleander plant over public safety

Abu Dhabi Media Office

The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has announced a ban on the cultivation, production, propagation, and circulation of the toxic oleander plant in the emirate.

This decision is aimed at safeguarding public health, particularly for children and pets, from the dangers associated with this poisonous plant.

Oleander, a shrub often found in rocky areas and planted for its attractive flowers, contains toxic substances in all its parts.

Ingestion, even in small amounts, can lead to serious health issues, including nausea, vomiting, and potentially fatal heart irregularities.

Mouza Suhail Al Muhairi, ADAFSA's Deputy Director General for Regulatory and Administrative Affairs, stressed the importance of this ban as a proactive measure to ensure community safety.

The resolution, effective immediately, mandates the removal of oleander within six months. However, exceptions will be made for research purposes with prior approval from ADAFSA.

Collaboration with other government agencies is key to this initiative, with extensive awareness campaigns planned to educate the public on the dangers of oleander.

Dr. Salem Al Kaabi, Director General of Operations Affairs at the Department of Municipalities and Transport, reaffirmed their commitment to this collaborative effort.

ADAFSA urges residents to report any oleander plants and to avoid touching or consuming unfamiliar plants. For emergencies, the Poison and Drug Information Services hotline is available 24/7 at 800424.

This move aligns with the One Health approach, which emphasises the connection between human, animal and environmental health, further demonstrating Abu Dhabi’s dedication to safety and well-being.

 

More from Local News

News

  • H.H. Sheikh Hamdan pays tribute to royal photographer

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, has offered his heartfelt condolences to the family of royal photographer Ramesh Shukla, who passed away on Sunday.

  • H.H. Sheikh Hamdan awards Arab Hope Makers

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, has awarded Morocco's Fouzia Jbara Mahmoudi with AED1 million as the top winner of the Arab Hope Maker initiative on Sunday.

  • UAE looks into framework to regulate children's social media use

    The UAE's Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council is working towards establishing a framework that will regulate the use of social media among children.