Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin yesterday launched the ‘One-Student-One-Tree’ initiative, as part of the government’s leading afforestation programme, the Green Ghana Project.

During the launch at Abuakwa State College in Kyebi, Eastern Region, the Okyenhene explained that the ‘One-Student-One-Tree’ initiative aims to complement the government’s tree planting efforts.

He added that the initiative seeks to involve students from second cycle institutions in the project, instil in Ghana’s youth and children the culture of tree planting, and raise awareness about the significance of environmental protection.

He commended the enduring advantages of environmental endeavours such as Green Ghana Day, emphasising the act of planting a tree as a symbolic gesture of a steadfast commitment and dedication to the project.

The Okyenhene urged the students to actively engage in the project, and contribute to global efforts to build a sustainable and resilient climate. This, according to him, will shield humanity from harsh and unfavourable climatic conditions.

“I am proud to say that we have been instrumental in the success of Green Ghana Day since its inception in 2021. Our ancestors used their souls and spirits to protect the forests, and it is now our responsibility to do the same. They dedicated 100 days a year to forest conservation,” he said.

“Do not be reckless, irresponsible, or greedy, focusing only on immediate gains at the expense of your future survival. It is crucial to protect your future. Our elders taught us not to destroy assets because they retain their value. We have decimated our forests and water reserves, and we are now experiencing the impacts of climate change,” he lamented.

He encouraged the students  to participate wholeheartedly in the exercise to protect and preserve the present and future generations.

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources,  Samuel Abu Jinapor, lauded the Okyenhene for his visionary and exemplary leadership, which had endured for over 25 years.

Mr Jinapor also commended the Okyenhene for his consistent guidance and support towards various government initiatives and policies, notably the Green Ghana project.

“Allow me to begin by congratulating His Royal Highness, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, for his remarkable 25 years of exceptional leadership and unwavering pursuit of excellence for his people and our nation as a whole. Today, we pay tribute to a leader whose steadfast dedication, foresight, service, and dedication have profoundly influenced not only the Abuakwa Traditional Area but also our nation and humanity,” he expressed.

The Minister provided historical context to the conversation about the urgency of the Green Ghana Project. He reminded the citizenry of Ghana’s precarious situation regarding forest reserve protection and the progress made with the planting of over 42 million trees since 2021.

“Nananom, esteemed teachers, students, ladies, and gentlemen, it is noteworthy that the ‘One Student One Tree’ initiative goes beyond planting; it fosters a sense of environmental stewardship in our students. It represents our collective duty to protect and ensure a sustainable future,” he stated.

According to him, “by participating in this programme, we aim to instil in our students the significance of caring for the environment, which underpins our economy, society, and existence. Our students must develop a connection to nature, broaden their ecological understanding, and strengthen their responsibility to the world they will inherit”.

He emphasised: “As we embark on this journey, let us remember that planting a tree is an act of hope, a declaration of our faith in the future, and our commitment to a bright and sustainable tomorrow. Let us encourage each student to take pride in their tree, to nurture its growth, and to recognize that their actions today will shape the world of tomorrow.”

The Eastern Regional Minister,  Seth Acheampong, indicated that the initiative would  gather students to honour the environment to build their future and health.

He pledged his absolute support to ensure that the initiative would be sustained to become a history for posterity. He hoped that the Green Ghana project would fulfil its purpose in growing a greener tomorrow.