Nkawie: A ceremonial tree planted by President John Dramani Mahama at Nkawie in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality to commemorate the launch of the 'Tree for Life' initiative has survived and is flourishing three months after planting.
According to Ghana News Agency, the President planted the tree on March 21 this year to kick off the 'Tree for Life' initiative, which seeks to restore degraded landscapes, promote sustainable forest management, and conserve biodiversity across the country.
Mr. Wisdom Osei Boamah, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), speaking at a ceremony to mark World Environment Day, said the healthy growth of the 'Presidential Tree' should serve as an inspiration for all Ghanaians to adopt tree planting as a national habit. He said if every citizen followed the President's shining example and took the responsibility of planting trees, the target of planting 30 million seedlings this month could be achieved.
He expressed concern over the extensive land degradation caused by illegal mining, sand winning, and other unauthorized activities, stressing the need for urgent and sustained action. Mr. Boamah outlined the Assembly's collaboration with the District Forest Services Division to continue planting trees until all degraded lands were fully reclaimed. He warned against the abandonment of mining pits, describing them as death traps. He called for an immediate end to such practices, warning that perpetrators would face prosecution. 'The fight against illegal activities will continue until the right thing is done,' he emphasized.
Mr. Abraham Essel, the District Forestry Manager, appealed to the youth to actively participate in the initiative, describing tree planting as a viable source of employment. He also urged the media to help raise awareness and promote community engagement in tree planting efforts, making it an appealing and widely accepted practice. Mr. Essel further called on private organizations and individuals to join the Forestry Commission and other stakeholders in the ongoing planting campaign, which will run until October across forest reserves and other targeted areas.
