The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Sulemana Yusif (MP), has called on Ghanaians to adopt tree planting as a way of life, highlighting its central role in restoring degraded lands, conserving biodiversity, and combating climate change.
He made the appeal during a commemorative tree planting exercise organised by the Forestry Commission under the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Commission’s headquarters in Accra. The symbolic event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, corporate institutions, religious bodies, government officials, and environmental advocates.
Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Hon. Yusif described every tree planted as “a seed of life, hope, and legacy,” emphasizing that tree planting is not just an event but a national responsibility.
“This is not just about trees—it is about reclaiming degraded lands, restoring ecosystems, and building a more resilient Ghana,” he stated.
The Tree for Life Initiative, launched by President Mahama in March 2025, seeks to plant at least 30 million seedlings this year across Ghana. The nationwide reforestation drive involves collaboration among schools, communities, religious groups, private sector actors, and international partners.
The Deputy Minister also reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to environmental sustainability through bold policies and long-term strategies. He outlined the government’s five-pronged approach to addressing illegal mining: reforming the licensing system, strengthening law enforcement, reclaiming mined-out areas, offering alternative livelihoods, and intensifying public education and stakeholder engagement.
Appealing to the diplomatic community and development partners, Hon. Yusif urged for increased technical and financial support in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining and deforestation.
“Our commitment is clear: Ghana is determined to leave behind a legacy of green wealth and environmental stewardship for future generations,” he emphasized.
The Achimota Forest Reserve, one of Accra’s last remaining urban forests, was chosen as the ceremonial site, representing the balance between urban development and ecological conservation.
Chairman of the Forestry Commission Board, Prof. Martin Oteng-Ababio, also addressed the gathering. He stressed the vital importance of trees to human life and development and urged Ghanaians to take tree planting seriously. He also commended the diplomatic community for their consistent support of Ghana’s green agenda.
Representing the Diplomatic Corps, the Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Maher Kheir, reaffirmed the corps’ collective commitment to Ghana’s environmental sustainability agenda and praised the government for its proactive initiatives in the forestry sector.
