ADDIS ABABA (ENA)– In a powerful demonstration of inter-generational environmental stewardship, the elderly, including a nun who took part in the “Dawn to Dusk” tree-planting campaign in West Gondar Zone of the Amhara region, has declared that the Green Legacy Initiative is the most valuable inheritance to pass on to future generations.
This sentiment echoes across the nation as Ethiopia embarks on an ambitious dawn to dusk initiative to plant 600 million seedlings as part of its Green Legacy Initiative.
Emahoy Azanash Seyoum, a nun and resident of Genda Wuha town, shared her insight saying that “seedlings are a precious legacy that we pass on to our children, sustaining life itself.”
Her words, along with those of other elderly participants, underscore the spiritual and practical significance of this nationwide environmental effort.
Reflecting on their participation, the venerated citizens clarified that their involvement wasn’t about showcasing their physical prowess, but rather about setting an example and entrusting a vital mission to the younger generation.
The other participant, Sheikh Ahmed Jibril, stated that “ensuring a livable future for the next generation is the highest honor for us elders.”
The sheikh also highlighted the spiritual dimension of this endeavor, describing it as an act that transcends self-interest, benefiting all of humanity and aligning with divine commandments.
He urged the youth to nurture the seedlings diligently, fulfilling the sacred duty entrusted to them by their forebears and preserving this legacy for future generations.
West Gondar Zone Deputy Administrator and Head of the Agriculture Department, Andarge Getu said the dawn to dusk tree-planting program is being implemented across 24 kebeles in the zone.
He elaborated on the day’s activities, which involved mobilizing the community to plant indigenous and economically valuable tree species.
Andarge stressed that just as the community has come together to plant these seedlings, they must remain united in nurturing them in the coming days, months, and years.
Today’s tree-planting event is part of Ethiopia’s broader Green Legacy Initiative launched in 2019 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
The initiative aims to combat environmental degradation, mitigate the effects of climate change, and promote eco-tourism.
Its goal is to plant billions of trees across the country, with the dual purpose of reforesting the land and creating green jobs.
By involving citizens from all walks of life, from school children to the elderly, the Green Legacy Initiative fosters a sense of collective responsibility for the environment.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 25 AUGUST 2024
