Planting a tree, protecting the future
On June 5, 2025, Ghana took a commendable step in environmental restoration with the launch of the Tree for Life programme.
Inaugurated by President John Dramani Mahama on the occasion of World Environment Day, this ambitious national initiative seeks to restore over seven million hectares of degraded land and plant 30 million trees across the country.
As the President planted a commemorative tree at the Kwabenya Community Senior High School in Accra, he called on every Ghanaian to rise to the moment and plant at least one tree within the month.
This is a challenge that all citizens must take seriously for the collective good of present and future generations.
The timing of this initiative could not be more critical. Ghana, like many nations, continues to grapple with the dual crises of environmental degradation and climate change.
Rampant deforestation, land degradation and pollution, particularly plastic pollution, have contributed significantly to the loss of biodiversity, changing weather patterns and deteriorating agricultural productivity.
The theme for this year’s World Environment Day, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” aligns seamlessly with the objectives of Tree for Life, creating a powerful synergy between reforestation and sustainable environmental practices.
One of the most laudable components of the Tree for Life programme is the “One Child, One Tree” initiative.
The Daily Graphic sees this as a forward-thinking approach not only because it addresses the pressing need for afforestation, but also because it serves as an educational tool, nurturing a culture of environmental stewardship in Ghana’s youth.
By empowering every student to plant and care for a tree, we are cultivating a generation of environmentally conscious citizens who understand that sustainability begins with individual action.
The involvement of multiple stakeholders, from government ministers to traditional leaders, Members of Parliament, members of the diplomatic corps and development partners, signals the seriousness with which this initiative is being pursued.
We think the collaborative spirit evident at the launch must now be extended to every region, district, community and household.
This is not merely a government programme; it is a national movement that requires unified effort and enduring commitment.
The Forestry Commission has laid out comprehensive modalities for the tree-planting activities.
From urban centres and rural communities to school grounds and degraded forest reserves, the scale of implementation is both vast and inclusive.
With over 10,000 hectares set to be restored under the Modified Taungya System (MTS) and a further 2,000 hectares to be planted by Youth Forest Champions, the opportunities for participation are widespread.
Moreover, the provision of seedlings — including timber, ornamental, fruit and multipurpose species — at regional and district offices ensures accessibility for all.
Yet, planting trees is only the beginning.
The true test of this programme’s success will lie in the nurturing and protection of the trees.
As President Mahama rightly noted, planting a seedling teaches responsibility, and watching it grow imparts a deep understanding of how collective action can heal and transform the land.
Teachers, local authorities, traditional leaders and environmental officers must work together to ensure these trees are not only planted but thrive.
The Tree for Life programme represents more than an environmental intervention; it is a profound statement of national intent — a declaration that Ghana is ready to lead by example in reversing land degradation, tackling climate change and building a resilient, green future.
We, therefore, call on all Ghanaians — students, farmers, traders, professionals and public servants — to rise to the occasion. Grab a seedling.
Plant a tree. Water it. Protect it. In doing so, you will be planting not just a tree, but a legacy.
A legacy of hope, renewal and a greener Ghana.
