Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II, the revered Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, has declared June 7, 2024, as Green Ghana Day. The call to action was made during the launch event held at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale, Northern Region, where stakeholders and Ghanaians gathered to emphasize the importance of environmental stewardship.
The keynote address, delivered by Naa Bapra Zangbalun Yakubu Mahama on behalf of Ya-Na Abubakari Mahama II, highlighted the significance of the Green Ghana Day Project initiated by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. The Overlord expressed optimism about exceeding previous milestones and stressed the essential role of afforestation in mitigating climate change impacts, especially in the northern regions facing challenges from erratic rainfall patterns.
During the event, a passionate plea was made to promote the cultivation and protection of shea trees, a vital economic resource in the region. Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, was urged to lead initiatives to expand shea tree cultivation and prevent bushfires from threatening existing trees.
Lands Minister Samuel Jinapor underscored the critical importance of the Green Ghana Project in combating the escalating climate crisis. Since its inception three years ago, over 42 million trees have been planted nationwide, surpassing targets and expectations. The ambitious goal for this year’s Green Ghana Day is to plant an additional ten million trees under the theme ‘Growing for a Greener Tomorrow.’
Various stakeholders from different sectors were called upon to actively participate in tree planting activities and support the initiative’s expansion. Northern Region Minister Shani Alhassan Shaibu emphasized the collective commitment to environmental sustainability and proactive measures against environmental challenges.
The event also saw the participation of key personalities such as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Development Studies, Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, who commended the government for the initiative and urged widespread support for its success. The event was graced by the presence of Board Chairpersons of the Forestry Commission, Deputy CEOs of Agencies, Directors, and staff of the Ministry and the Forestry Commission.
Overall, the launch of Green Ghana Day 2024 reinforced the need for collaborative efforts to protect the environment and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
