Nicosia municipality has established 21 organised feeding points for stray cats as part of an animal welfare initiative presented today at a municipal event. The event also saw the launch of the new “Nicosia Pet Friendly” platform.
As part of the initiative, 21 feeding stations have already been installed across all municipal districts. In addition, two organised feeding areas have been created at Pedieos Linear Park and Olympiades Park. A system of controlled and hygienic feeding is being implemented with the support of volunteers, whose contribution is described as crucial to ensuring the proper operation of the feeding points and the welfare of the animals.
Harmonious coexistence between animals and humans
According to a statement by the Municipality of Nicosia, the initiative is being carried out in cooperation with Kosmos Insurance, which, as the main sponsor, actively supports efforts to enhance animal welfare and improve quality of life in the city.
In his address, Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos said the initiative reflects the culture, sensitivity and sense of responsibility of society towards all forms of life. He stressed that cats are an integral part of Nicosia’s identity and urban fabric, while their proper care contributes both to public health protection and to maintaining the balance of the urban ecosystem.
The statement also referenced remarks by the CEO and executive board member of Kosmos Insurance, Kyriakos Tyllis, who underlined that the way a society treats animals is an indicator of its level of civilisation, noting that the company supports initiatives promoting respect and harmonious coexistence between humans and animals.
Involving children
Particular interest was shown in a practical demonstration of the feeding stations by the initiative’s originator, Maria Arkoudi, who visited Cyprus for the occasion. Children from Faneromeni kindergarten also took part, highlighting the importance of fostering animal welfare awareness from an early age.
The mayor also made special reference to the importance of sterilisation as a key tool for the responsible management of the stray animal population, calling on citizens to actively support such efforts.
As part of the event, the new “Nicosia Pet Friendly” initiative was also presented for the first time — a modern platform aimed at informing and raising awareness on animal welfare issues. It will provide information on responsible pet ownership, adoptions, lost and found animals, as well as activities and pet-friendly spaces in the city.
According to the statement, the Municipality of Nicosia aims to create a city that respects and protects animals, while strengthening cooperation with citizens for a more humane and sustainable daily life, underlining the importance of collaboration between local authorities, the private sector and civil society.
CNA