The Deputy Minister responsible for Lands and Forestry, Mr. Benito Owusu-Bio, who doubles as the National Chairman of the 2023 Green Ghana Planning Committee, has called for effective monitoring and supervision of the seedlings planted to fuel the success of the 2023 edition of government’s aggressive afforestation and reforestation program to make Ghana Green again.
“After planting, the next stage is to protect and nurture the seedlings we have planted. The Ministry wishes to encourage everyone who took part in the planting exercise to nurture the seedlings planted into maturity. With collective action, we can make Ghana Green again” He stated.
Addressing the media on behalf of the Sector Minister, Hon. Samuel, A. Jinapor, during a post-Green Ghana Day Press Briefing, held at the Forestry Commission Head Office, Accra on Wednesday, 14th June 2023, Mr. Benito Owusu-Bio appreciated the efforts of all Ghanaians and residents of Ghana who participated in the Green Ghana Day planting exercise and hoped for continued support for the subsequent years.
The Deputy Minister in his “Thank You” speech promised that subsequently, a detailed report of the aftermath of the 2023 Green Ghana Day distribution, will be made available to the public and the media.
The CEO of the Forestry Commission Mr. John Allotey in his in-depth presentation on the provisional results of the seedlings distributed, said the Ashanti Region topped the Regional target list with a 137% distribution rate which equals to 3,147,306 actual seedlings distributed from an initial target of 2,300,000.
He noted that aside from the Ashanti Region, the Eastern, Western North, Central, Bono, Ahafo, Upper West and Greater Accra Regions also exceeded their targets.
He applauded some lead private plantation companies and churches who contributed to the success of the Project, outlining the Presbyterian Church, The Church of Pentecost, The Apostolic Church, the Catholic Church and the Methodist Church as the 5 top churches.
He also named Ecoplanet Bamboo West Africa, Form Ghana, Sakam Savana Co. LTD, Global Green Gold among others as examples, while commending the Muslim community, particularly the Chief Imam for their support.
Mr. Allotey also revealed that even with the number planted, there are still more seedlings available at the various pickup centers and therefore urged all interested parties to visit the nearest Forestry Commission office and get a seedling to plant.
