President Akufo-Addo has planted a tree in commemoration of the second edition of the Green Ghana day.

While the President planted a Moringa Tree (tree of life) last year to mark the occasion, he planted the African Mahogany tree this year.

Addressing the gathering at the Efua Sutherland Park, the President acknowledged the relevance of the occasion, stressing that this is part of efforts to recover the country’s lost forest cover.

“…we are embarking on an aggressive aforestation and re-aforestation program aimed at restoring the country’s lost forest cover and halting the current rate of deforestation,” he said.

The Green Ghana initiative was started in 2021. Under the first edition, a target for planting 5 million trees was set, however, at the end of the exercise, it emerged that 7 million trees were planted.

President Akufo-Addo, during his speech at the Efua Sutherland Park, thanked the citizenry for being a part of the first edition which he described as a success.

“I want to use this opportunity once again to thank you all, my fellow Ghanaians, and everyone who contributed to the success of that programme,” Mr Akufo-Addo added.

“This year, our target is to plant at least 20 million trees. Even though 20 million may sound like a lot, it’s nowhere near what we’ve lost over the years. Trees, and indeed, forests are necessary for our own survival and that of our planet,” he added.

He further entreated the general public to participate in this year’s event.

“Happily, Green Ghana day has no political party colouration as we all agree that we must leave generations unborn – no matter their political affiliations – of a greener sustainable future,” he said.

“…it is in this spirit that I call on every one of you whether you are a Ghanaian or not in so far as you are in Ghana, join us today to plant at least 20 million,” he added.