UE/R: SOCO PROJECT FACILITATORS URGED TO WORK HARD FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE PROJECT – DCE NABDAM
BY: ATUIMAH VALERIOUS
Ghana’s “Trees for Life” (T4L) 2025 reforestation initiative, spearheaded by the President, is set to significantly benefit the Upper East Region by addressing critical environmental challenges and fostering economic opportunities. The nationwide program aims to plant 30 million seedlings this year, with 500,000 specifically allocated to the Upper East Region, despite its historically lower tree survival rates.
The T4L initiative comes at a crucial time as Ghana faces widespread forest degradation, deforestation, pollution, and the adverse effects of climate change, including rising temperatures and browning water bodies. Mr. David Kweku, Regional Manager of the Forestry Commission in the Upper East Region, highlighted the urgent need for intervention during a recent interview on the GBC Ura Sunrise morning show.
The initiative’s core objectives extend beyond mere tree planting, aiming to create jobs, enhance livelihoods, and mitigate climate change. “The initiatives are coming to create jobs for people,” Mr. David stated, explaining that contracts for seedling production alone will generate significant income, with 30 million seedlings potentially injecting 30 million Ghana cedis into the economy. Furthermore, the program will directly employ youth as “youth forest champions” and utilize a system where individuals farm in designated forest areas while planting trees, thereby providing both food and employment.
Beyond economic benefits, the T4L initiative seeks to restore the natural beauty of urban areas and revive polluted water bodies through a “Blue Water Initiative”. Mr. David emphasized the goal of making water bodies clear enough to see fish swimming, reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
A critical long-term objective is to instill a culture of environmental stewardship, particularly among younger generations. By encouraging children to plant and nurture trees, the initiative aims to foster a lasting appreciation for the environment and ensure its preservation for future generations.
For the Upper East Region, the selection of drought-resistant seedlings such as Shea, Neem, Teak, and Eucalyptus is paramount for the success of the initiative, given the region’s climate. Additionally, fruit trees like mango and cashew are being distributed to cater to local preferences and provide food security.
The planting season for the Upper East Region will run from June 5th to September 30th, coinciding with the presidential lead planting event. Nurseries in the region are already prepared with seedlings, ensuring a ready supply for the widespread planting efforts. The “Trees for Life” initiative represents a comprehensive approach to combating environmental degradation, improving livelihoods, and securing a sustainable future for the Upper East Region and Ghana as a whole.
