Barekese: Mr. Mba Alenbila Zechariah, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atwima Nwabiagya North, has called on chiefs, opinion leaders, and community members to unite in support of the Government’s ‘Tree for Life’ initiative. Speaking at the official launch of the nationwide campaign held at Barekese, Mr. Zechariah emphasized the vital role trees play in human life, citing their benefits such as providing wood for construction and furniture, as well as producing oxygen for survival. ‘This initiative is not just about planting trees, it is about preserving our environment and securing our future. Every individual must take responsibility to plant and protect trees within their surroundings,’ he urged.

According to Ghana News Agency, the ‘Tree for Life’ initiative is part of the Government’s broader efforts to reclaim degraded lands and promote environmental sustainability. The campaign encourages both corporate and individual entities to participate in a large-scale greening exercise aimed at restoring and protecting the environment. As part of the initiative, free seedlings are available at all Forestry Services Division (FSD) offices across the country for planting.

Mr. Amofa Oduro, Range Manager of the Nkawie Forest Services Division, appealed to farmers and residents to safeguard the trees on their farms. He warned against environmentally destructive practices such as illegal mining, sand winning, chain sawing, and bush burning. He said these harmful activities not only destroyed forests, but also endangered lives, adding that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted. He called for strict supervision of the planted trees, especially those within forest reserves, to ensure the success of the initiative.