Ethiopia, which is sometimes called the roof of Africa, is the land where several fauna and flora species are found and it is a home to diverse range of ecosystems and biodiversity. Due to this, the country is suitable for various plant species; and once most of its land was covered by forests. However, for various reasons, this forest coverage has been depleted and resulted in threat to the survival of wild animals living within the forest and to human beings as well for the reason deforestation causes drought in various parts of the country.
However, since recent years, the country, under a new initiative dubbed as ‘Green Legacy Initiative’ and spearheaded by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), is working to plant billions of seedlings and rehabilitate its degraded lands. This ambitious initiative, launched in 2019, has mobilized citizens from all walks of life, and millions of tree seedlings of different species planted all over the world. This commitment is also enabling the nation to restore degraded landscapes, and promote sustainable environmental management.
The prime objective of the Green Legacy Initiative is to plant billions of trees by 2025 and counteract deforestation, restore ecosystems and resilience against climate change effects. As indicated by the Premier, this Initiative is not just about planting trees but to cultivating a sense of responsibility toward protecting the environment among all citizens.
Starting from the year the initiative was launched, positive results are witnessing. The tree planting project is inviting several people from different walks of life. Ranging from the Diaspora community to daily laborers, from teachers to students, ministers, ambassadors, and others are leaving their legacy. For instance, last year, on July 17, more than 566 million tree seedlings were planted within a single day surpassing the initial target of planting 500 million seedlings.
This year also a goal is set to plant 600 million tree seedlings in 12 hours across the country. As indicated by the Prime Minister, Ethiopians will plant 600 million tree seedlings in a single day accords the country on August 23, 2024.
In his message posted on Social media, the Primer has called on Ethiopians to get ready for the massive tree-planting campaign scheduled to be carried out on the coming Friday, August 23, 2024. “Let`s plant 600 million seedlings in a single day on August 23, 2024,” he urged.
Prime Minister Abiy also emphasized the importance of unity and harmony among Ethiopians. According to him, through unity, Ethiopians can achieve more. Thus, Abiy encouraged every adult and teenager to leave their legacy for the next generation by planting more tree seedlings on that special day. Planting trees is one way of showing love to Ethiopia and leaving a green legacy to the next generation is a manifestation of true patriotism in this era. “Let us leave our legacy all over Ethiopia with one spirit. If we are one, we can do more.”
In a related development, Planning and Developing Minister Fitsum Assefa (PhD) disclosed lately that the Green Legacy Initiative has been significantly contributing to the achievement of national forest cover. In her late report last June, Fitsum said that by 2023, nation’s forest coverage has increased to 23.6 percent from 17.2 percent in 2019.
Speaking on a high-level panel discussion on the Green Legacy Initiative, Fitsum said that the Initiative has brought about positive impacts in terms of increasing the country’s forest coverage and promoting environmental rehabilitation efforts.
According to her, the Green Legacy Initiative is not only benefiting Ethiopia. The ambitious Initiative is also benefiting neighboring countries and the world at large. That is why Ethiopia has been encouraging other African countries to be part and parcel of the tree-planting campaign by providing tree seedlings. In her speech, the Minister also urged the international community to support Ethiopia’s tangible effort.
Mentioning the fact that Ethiopia`s firm determination and commitment in building a climate-resilient economy, Fitsum said this commitment is being translated into action.
Speaking on his part, Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) Country Representative, Okechukwu Daniel Ogbonnaya said that the Green Legacy Initiative is laudable and an ambitious move to mitigate climate change. In this regard, he emphasized that other neighboring countries should emulate what Ethiopia is doing to rescue our planet from global warming and its related threats.
Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative stands as a vital remedy in our collective fight against climate change, embodying the spirit of resilience and responsibility that is essential for our planet’s future. The initiative’s goal of planting 20 billion trees by 2025 is not just an environmental campaign; it is a call to action that resonates with every Ethiopian. This endeavor highlights the crucial role that individuals play in fostering a healthier ecosystem and combating the pressing challenges posed by climate change.
Indeed, every Ethiopian can be an integral part of this initiative. By planting tree seedlings—be it in our backyards, schools, or our premises or community land—we can contribute meaningfully in restoring our ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and improving air quality. Each tree, we planted symbolizes hope, providing future generations with a greener, more sustainable world. It is essential to remember that planting is just the first step; but protecting and nurturing these seedlings is equally vital. By ensuring their growth, we can safeguard our environments and strengthen our communities.
The Green Legacy Initiative empowers individuals to take ownership of their environments. It instills a sense of pride in participation—every seedling nurtured, every tree protected, contributes to a collective legacy that strengthens not only our social fabric but also our natural landscape. Engaging in this movement fosters collaboration, as neighbors come together, share knowledge, and support one another in this shared goal of eco-restoration.
Embracing the Green Legacy Initiative means acknowledging our role as stewards of the earth. Together, we can combat deforestation, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and create a sustainable environment for all. As Ethiopians, we have to protect our natural resources and ensure that our beautiful landscapes and rich biodiversity endure for future generations to cherish.
In conclusion, let us join hands and hearts in embracing the Green Legacy Initiative. Let every Ethiopian commits to planting trees, protecting natural resources, and nurturing a culture of environmental stewardship. Together, we can create a greener, healthier Ethiopia—a testament to our determination in the face of climate change and a gift to the generations that follow. The future is in our hands.
BY LEULSEGED WORKU
The Ethiopian Herald August 18/2024
