President Mahama Launches ‘Tree for Life’ Initiative to Combat Deforestation

President John Dramani Mahama has launched the ‘Tree for Life’ initiative, a groundbreaking afforestation and agro-forestry program aimed at restoring Ghana’s degraded lands and combating deforestation.

The ambitious initiative was unveiled in Nkawie, Ashanti Region, on Friday, March 21, 2025, and reflects the government’s commitment to restoring the country’s lost forest cover while addressing the harmful effects of illegal mining.

Speaking at the launch, President Mahama stressed the importance of reforesting Ghana’s landscapes, stating that the initiative is part of the government’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability.

He revealed that a pilot project had already successfully restored 16 hectares of land and that plans were in place to expand the efforts.

The goal is to reclaim up to 500 acres of land annually, with a target of restoring at least 10,000 hectares in the short term.

The initiative also aligns with both national and international climate commitments, as President Mahama emphasized Ghana’s dedication to addressing climate change.

In addition, the initiative complements the Blue Water Initiative, which aims to rehabilitate Ghana’s polluted water bodies, creating a comprehensive approach to environmental protection.

“We are determined to restore our forest cover and stop the destruction of our environment,” President Mahama said. “This initiative is not just about planting trees; it’s about ensuring a sustainable future for all Ghanaians.”

In a significant move, President Mahama also announced that by June 30, 2025, Ghana would become the first African country and the second in the world, after Indonesia, to export Forest Law Enforcement, Governance, and Trade (FLEGT)-licensed timber to the European Union.

This action will ensure that only legally harvested timber is traded, helping to combat illegal logging and promote responsible forestry practices.

As part of the government’s broader environmental efforts, President Mahama emphasized the need for a collective national effort to accelerate climate action, calling on all Ghanaians to actively participate in the ‘Tree for Life’ initiative.

To support this initiative, the Forestry Commission will provide seedlings to encourage widespread tree planting across the country.

In addition to these efforts, President Mahama revealed plans for legislative reforms to protect Ghana’s forests.

directed the Minister of Environment to begin the process of repealing Legislative Instrument 2462, which currently allows the President to unilaterally authorize mining in forest reserves.

The launch of the ‘Tree for Life’ initiative marks a major step forward in the country’s ongoing fight against deforestation and environmental degradation.

President Mahama’s call to action signals a renewed commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.