Tree for Life initiative takes off

The Tree for Life programme aims to restore over seven million hectares of degraded land. It launched last Thursday with President John Dramani Mahama encouraging citizens to plant at least one tree this month.

To mark the start of this initiative, the President planted a commemorative tree at Kwabenya Community Senior High School in Accra. The goal is to plant 30 million trees during this month-long exercise.

Key stakeholders attended the launch, including government officials, traditional leaders, and diplomats. They gathered to support this national effort.

President Mahama urged all Ghanaians to participate in this important task. He emphasized its benefits for current and future generations.

One Child, One Tree

The event coincided with World Environment Day (WED). It also launched the One Child, One Tree initiative under the Tree for Life programme. This initiative encourages students to help restore degraded landscapes.

Several ministers were present at the event. These included Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (Land and Natural Resources) and Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (Environment). Other attendees included CEOs from various environmental agencies and some Members of Parliament.

President Mahama explained that each child would receive a native seedling suited for their area. Students will plant these seedlings on school grounds or in their communities.

Transformative Initiative

Mr. Iddrisu highlighted that One Child, One Tree promotes environmental awareness among children. The Ministry of Education will collaborate with other agencies to distribute seedlings nationwide.

He mentioned that the Ghana Education Service (GES) would introduce a new module focused on environmental consciousness in schools.

Modalities for Planting

Dr. Brown outlined where trees would be planted: urban areas, rural communities, school grounds, farmlands, riverbanks, and degraded forest reserves.

Tree-planting activities are categorized into components. Public planting will occur from June 5 to June 30.

In addition to public planting, there will be 10,000 hectares of forest plantation established through collaboration between the Forestry Commission and local communities. Youth Forest Champions will directly plant 2,000 hectares under the reforestation initiative.

Farmers will also receive tree seedlings for planting on their farms. Furthermore, 500 hectares of mine-out lands are set for reclamation as part of this year's efforts.

The Greater Accra Regional Minister urged everyone to combat plastic pollution actively. She stressed that every Ghanaian should engage in the Tree for Life initiative to help restore the environment.