30 Million Trees Survive from Green Ghana Initiative Since 2021

The Lands and Natural Resources Minister has announced that 30 million trees have survived out of the 41 million seedlings planted since the start of the Green Ghana initiative in 2021.

At a press briefing in Accra, Minister Samuel Abu Jinapor shared updates ahead of the upcoming Green Ghana Day. He said that in 2021, the first year of the initiative, seven million seedlings were planted with a survival rate of 67%. The following year, 24 million seedlings were planted, with a 72% survival rate. In 2023, 10.7 million seedlings were planted, achieving an 81% survival rate.

To support the initiative, the government has spent GH₵8 million on purchasing seedlings since 2021. In addition, private and public institutions, including faith-based organizations and the Ghana Armed Forces, contributed seedlings and logistical support to make the tree-planting exercises a success.

This year, the government aims to plant 10 million seedlings across the country. A special tree-planting ceremony will be held at Burma Camp in Accra. The President will lead the event, with other key leaders such as the Vice President, Speaker of Parliament, and Chief Justice participating.

The theme for this year’s Green Ghana Day is “Growing for a Greener Tomorrow.” Of the 10 million seedlings to be planted, six million will be placed in degraded forest reserves, while four million will be planted in farms, parks, recreational grounds, road medians, and communities.

A variety of trees, including ornamentals, fruit trees, and multi-purpose species like Avocado, Royal Palm, Coconut, Mango, Tree of Life, and Acacia, will be planted across the country. Seedlings will be available at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and District Offices of the Forestry Commission.

Mr. Jinapor called on all Ghanaians, including chiefs, religious groups, government officials, students, and members of civil society, to support this year’s tree-planting effort. He emphasized the importance of trees for the health of the planet and the well-being of its people.

“Planting and conserving trees is essential for sustainable development and the resilience of ecosystems and human communities,” he said.

The minister urged the media to help spread the word and encourage everyone to participate in this important initiative.