After the presentation in El Mina, and in Gabès we traveled to Madaba to start the second phase of the NATURIncMed mission during two intensive days that were successfully concluded with a hands-on training that brought together municipal representatives and experts from El Mina (Lebanon), Gabès (Tunisia), and the hosting city. The training aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of participatory urban co-design processes that integrate nature-based solutions (NbS), while responding to citizens’ real needs and promoting the active involvement of civil society organisations (CSOs).

Throughout the two days, participants explored innovative urban planning approaches, focusing on how to co-design public spaces that are both inclusive and environmentally sustainable. Strong emphasis was placed on involving local communities in the design process to ensure that public spaces are socially inclusive and environmentally resilient. Discussions and practical sessions highlighted the importance of addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable groups as well as the environmental pressures affecting Madaba in the context of climate change, such as water scarcity, the need for drought-resistant native plants, the urban heat island effect, and low-maintenance greening strategies.

As part of the NATURIncMed project, the Municipality of Madaba organised site visits to three urban areas under consideration for future intervention. The pre-selection of the preferred site was based on a combination of environmental criteria, such as water availability, existing tree canopy, and biodiversity potential, along with the social dynamics and surrounding activities. This holistic approach ensures that the chosen space holds ecological value while also being relevant, accessible, and meaningful to the local community.

Madaba’s unique historical identity and rich cultural heritage shaped the training experience. Participants were invited to engage with the city’s world-renowned mosaics and layered history, incorporating this sense of place into the co-design activities. This link between heritage and contemporary needs inspired creative ideas grounded in both tradition and innovation.

Co-design techniques were tested on-site, providing a practical framework for future projects aiming to enhance public spaces with green infrastructure. The Municipality of Madaba reaffirmed its commitment to expanding green urban areas throughout the city, underlining the importance of involving civil society to foster long-term ownership and maintenance.

The mission concluded with a well-attended presentation to local CSOs, where a variety of organisations shared their current initiatives and future aspirations. Many of these CSOs are actively engaged in supporting women, children, and the most vulnerable collectives, with a shared commitment to improving Madaba’s liveability. Their approaches also reflect a clear understanding of the need to create positive social impact while safeguarding the city’s environmental ecosystems, making wise use of resources, reconnecting with agricultural traditions, and building a more sustainable and inclusive city. The insights and collaborations developed during this mission are expected to shape upcoming interventions and strengthen Madaba’s, Mina and Gabès’ path toward a greener, more resilient city.