Ghana Deepens Green Economy Drive With Tree For Life Initiative

Government has renewed its commitment to building a green economy with the launch of the second phase of the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative.

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, who is also acting as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced that Ghana’s forests must play a central role in driving economic transformation.

Speaking at the Achimota Forest Reserve during the commemoration of the 2026 International Day of Forests, he stressed that forests should no longer be viewed solely as environmental assets, but as key contributors to national development.

According to him, the theme “Forests and Economies” aligns with the vision of President John Dramani Mahama and calls for a shift in how the country relates to its natural resources.

“A standing, thriving tree is not just an ecological asset, but a financial one,” he said, pointing to opportunities in carbon credit markets, sustainable timber production, ecotourism and pharmaceuticals.

He disclosed that more than 30 million seedlings were planted in 2025, creating over 41,000 jobs, with a target to match or exceed that figure in 2026. “We must do more than plant; we must nurture. A seedling is a promise, but a mature tree is a legacy,” he added.

In a welcome address, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, highlighted the ecological significance of the Achimota Forest Reserve, describing it as an essential green space that improves air quality, regulates temperature and enhances public well-being.

She outlined measures being implemented across the region to tackle environmental degradation, including intensified tree planting efforts within all metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies.

“We will collaborate with the Parks and Gardens Department and the Ministry of Transport to plant trees along road medians and ensure their proper maintenance,” she said.

The Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Dr Hugh C. A. Brown, also underscored the dual ecological and economic importance of forests.

He revealed that under the 2025 Tree for Life Initiative, about 23,600 hectares of degraded land were restored, with over 30.8 million seedlings planted nationwide.Despite these gains, he warned that illegal mining, logging and agricultural expansion continue to threaten forest reserves.

Dr. Brown further raised concerns about the risks faced by forestry personnel, describing forest protection as a dangerous task and citing recent attacks on officers.

“The least we can do is ensure that those who protect our forests, sometimes at great personal risk, are properly equipped,” he said.

He noted that new interventions, including tactical training, provision of protective gear and the establishment of forest protection camps, are being introduced to enhance safety and enforcement.

He also called for greater public involvement, stressing that an informed and engaged citizenry is critical in the fight against illegal mining and logging.

Messages of solidarity from the Country Director of the Food and Agriculture Organization, Priya Gujadhur, and a representative of the Ga Mantse reaffirmed support for Ghana’s environmental agenda, pledging continued collaboration to safeguard natural resources and promote sustainable development.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including security agency heads, Members of Parliament, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, sector institutions, students and members of the media.

The post Ghana Deepens Green Economy Drive With Tree For Life Initiative appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.

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