Kassena-Nankana MCE urges protection of trees to sustain Tree for Life initiative
MCE calls for action against bush burning and illegal tree felling as government targets 30 million trees
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Kassena-Nankana Municipal Assembly, Faustina Akeyom Abulu, has called for the protection of trees to ensure the sustainability of the government’s Tree for Life initiative aimed at preserving the environment and promoting economic growth.
According to her, deliberate efforts must be made by all stakeholders to discourage activities that degrade the environment, particularly bush burning, indiscriminate tree felling, and other harmful practices.
Abulu made the call during the observance of this year’s Tree for Life initiative organised by the Navrongo District Division of the Forestry Commission on Friday, June 5, at Our Ladies of Lourdes Senior High School in Navrongo.
Addressing a gathering comprising Forestry Commission staff, heads of various agencies within the municipality, traditional authorities, students, teachers, and other stakeholders, the MCE underscored the critical role of forests in national development.
“The theme for this year, Forestry and Economy, reminds us that our forests are not just trees. They provide jobs, food, medicine, clean air, and income for our people.
“When we destroy our forests, we destroy our economy. But when we plant trees and protect our environment, we strengthen and build our economy,” she stated.
Abulu noted that through the National Tree for Life initiative, the government aims to plant 30 million trees across the country to restore degraded lands affected by illegal mining, bush burning, and unsustainable tree harvesting practices.
She urged students, teachers, parents, and community members to actively participate in tree planting exercises, prevent bushfires, and report illegal activities that threaten forest resources.
The MCE commended the Forestry Commission for spearheading the initiative and appealed to traditional leaders and assembly members to support the programme at the community level.
She also pledged the Municipal Assembly’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at sustaining the initiative.
The Headmistress of Our Ladies of Lourdes Senior High School, Mary Amana Akampoi, reaffirmed the school’s commitment to nurturing and sustaining the trees planted on the campus.
She, however, appealed to the government and other benevolent organisations to support the school with mechanised boreholes to ensure a reliable water supply for both students and the maintenance of the trees.
“We have challenges with water, and we all know that without water it is difficult for trees to survive. I appeal for additional boreholes to help us sustain the trees we are planting,” she said.
The event concluded with a symbolic tree-planting exercise led by the MCE and other dignitaries on the school premises to mark the occasion.
Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | David Adapuna
