Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, MP, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, reviewed the Green Ghana afforestation initiative, revealing that 41 million trees have been planted since it started in 2021, with 30 million growing well.
Speaking to the press on June 4, 2024, before the upcoming Green Ghana Day on June 7, the Lands Minister shared the project’s successes. In 2022, 24 million trees were planted, the most in any year. In 2023, 10.7 million trees were planted, with an impressive 81% survival rate. He assured that the Ministry and relevant agencies will continue to care for the trees to ensure their full growth.
The Minister promised that all essential preparations have been made for a successful commemoration of the day in 2024, and that sufficient seedlings have been bought to guarantee that the over 10 million aim is reached.
He mentioned that the project has largely been supported by the private sector over the years, with the government providing GHC 1.5 million for this year’s edition.
As usual, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will kick off the tree planting event at Nicholson Stadium in Burma Camp, Accra.
He also announced that this year’s theme, “Growing for a Greener Tomorrow,” urges Ghanaians to join global efforts against climate change. He encouraged the public to get involved, participate in the planting, and take responsibility for the growth of the trees they plant.
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The Minister announced that the government will ensure sustainable and responsible exploitation of timber resources, with all exported wood requiring a fledge license.
For the 2024 Green Ghana Day, ten million trees will be planted: six million in degraded forest reserves and four million in farms, watersheds, and communities, including roads, homes, schools, churches, offices, and parks.
The trees will include timber, shade, ornamental, fruit, and multipurpose species suitable for different regions, such as Eucalyptus, Mahogany, Teak, Mango, Coconut, and Avocado.
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