By Seli Baisie
President Akufo-Addo has announced that Ghana has successfully planted 42 million trees over the past three years, highlighting the nation’s collective effort to positively impact the environment.
In a Facebook post, the president stated, “Over the past three years, with unwavering public support, 42 million trees have been successfully planted across Ghana, most of which are thriving. This year, the initiative aims to add at least 10 million more trees, bringing the total to an impressive 52 million trees in just four years.”
Today, Friday, 7th June 2024 is marked as Green Ghana Day.
Green Ghana Day is an initiative launched by the government in 2021, aims to combat deforestation and promote sustainability.
The event has gained significant attention and public awareness, with prominent Ghanaians participating in tree planting and nurturing activities.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized the crucial role forests play in sustaining life on Earth and addressing the triple planetary crises of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. “In Ghana, activities related to Agriculture, Forest, and Land Use (AFOLU) contribute 50% of our national greenhouse gas emissions. By preserving our forests and adopting sustainable land use practices, we can significantly combat climate change through carbon sequestration,” he wrote.
“Each tree we plant today is a step towards a greener, healthier, and more prosperous future for all Ghanaians,” the president remarked.
The theme for the 4th edition of Green Ghana Day, “Growing for a Greener Tomorrow,” aims to inspire nationwide participation in the tree planting exercise. President Akufo-Addo urged citizens across the country—from Axim to Zebilla, Aflao to Tumu, regardless of profession—to grab a seedling, plant it, and nurture it to maturity.
“Let us work together to surpass our target of 10 million trees this year,” he encouraged. “Every seedling we plant today is a step towards a sustainable future. Together, let us go out not only to plant trees but also to grow them for a ‘Green Tomorrow.’”