Mahama launches ‘Tree for Life’ reforestation initiative to plant 7m trees

On March 21, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama officially launched the ‘Tree for Life’ (T4L) reforestation initiative, a groundbreaking environmental program aimed at addressing climate change and environmental degradation in Ghana. This flagship afforestation and agro-forestry project is set to distribute seven million seedlings  of ornamental and food crops, empowering citizens, government agencies, and the private sector to play an active role in restoring the country’s ecosystem.

A bold step towards environmental restoration

The ‘Tree for Life’ initiative is more than just a tree planting campaign; it’s a nationwide effort to promote environmental awareness, combat climate change, and restore lands and rivers ravaged by illegal mining activities. Speaking at the launch event in Nkawie, Ashanti Region, President Mahama emphasized the crucial role trees play in protecting the environment, asserting that the initiative aims to instill a spirit of environmental stewardship, especially among Ghanaian youth.

A commitment to sustainable environmental practices

President Mahama’s dedication to environmental conservation is exemplified not only through the T4L initiative but also by his administration’s actions to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources. One of the notable steps taken was his directive to the Minister of Environment to initiate the repeal of LI 2462, a law that grants the President authority to approve mining in forest reserves. This move reflects a broader commitment to reversing the damage caused by illegal mining and ensuring the preservation of Ghana’s forests.

“Alongside the fight against illegal mining, we shall begin the difficult work of reclaiming degraded lands. A pilot project by a private group has successfully restored 16 hectares of land. The intention is to scale this up to 500 acres of reclaimed land a year. And we aim, in the short term, to reclaim at least 10,000 hectares of land,” Mahama stated.

Tackling degraded lands and reclaiming the environment

Among the initiative’s key goals is the restoration of degraded lands, which have been adversely affected by deforestation, unsustainable farming practices, and illegal mining. The President highlighted a pilot project by a private group that has successfully restored 16 hectares of land, with plans to scale this up to 500 acres annually. This ambitious effort aims to reclaim at least 10,000 hectares of degraded land in the near future, contributing to the restoration of Ghana’s natural beauty and agricultural potential.

Lands Minister at landmark event for global environmental awareness

The launch of the ‘Tree for Life’ initiative coincided with the International Day of Forests, underscoring the global importance of sustainable environmental practices. This timing reinforced the urgency of tackling climate change and environmental degradation, both locally and globally. Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, joined the President in the landmark event, demonstrating a unified front in the fight for environmental sustainability.

Fulfilling the 120-Day social contract

The ‘Tree for Life’ initiative is also a fulfillment of President Mahama’s 120-day social contract with Ghanaians, which includes environmental sustainability as one of its core pillars. By launching this reforestation initiative, the President is taking tangible steps to improve the lives of Ghanaians while addressing long-standing environmental issues. The project aims to enhance soil quality, boost agricultural productivity, and create new green spaces for communities to thrive.

Promoting biodiversity and mitigating climate change

Beyond land restoration, the ‘Tree for Life’ initiative is crucial in the fight against climate change. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, reduce greenhouse gases, and help regulate the Earth’s climate. By planting millions of trees, the initiative will not only restore biodiversity but also bolster Ghana’s role in global environmental sustainability. As part of the wider global effort to combat deforestation, this initiative stands as a testament to Ghana’s commitment to a greener future.

Mobilizing Ghanaians for climate action

Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah made a passionate call for the active involvement of every Ghanaian citizen in the tree planting effort.

“Every Ghanaian is encouraged to participate in tree planting efforts to enhance biodiversity and combat climate change. Every tree planted is a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future. Let’s make Ghana Green,” Armah Kofi Buah urged.

This call emphasizes that environmental responsibility is not just a government task but a collective national effort that requires the engagement of all Ghanaians.

Building a greener future together

The ‘Tree for Life’ reforestation initiative represents a major milestone in Ghana’s path towards environmental sustainability. With the collaborative efforts of government bodies, private enterprises, and citizens, this project has the potential to transform Ghana’s landscape, improve the environment, and create a lasting legacy for future generations. As we celebrate the importance of tree planting on the International Day of Forests, this initiative reaffirms that every small action counts. By planting seven million trees, Ghana is taking a significant step toward a greener, more sustainable future. Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient environment for generations to come.