The Afar Regional State has officially launched its Green Legacy tree-planting program for the current season in Dubti Woreda, with Chief Administrator Awol Arba highlighting the initiative's crucial role in ensuring food security and protecting the region's natural landscape.
Speaking at the launch event, Chief Administrator Awol emphasized that the trees being planted are a vital means to reforest degraded areas, thereby safeguarding the environment. He underscored the particular importance of planting edible seedlings, noting their significant contribution to strengthening food security within the region.
"This program is a powerful tool to uplift our pastoralist communities from poverty and secure their food supply, directly linking it to the broader Green Legacy development," Awol stated. He elaborated on plans for extensive efforts in this regard.
The Chief Administrator also pointed to Ethiopia's burgeoning international recognition for its Green Legacy initiative over the past years, positioning the nation as a model for other countries in environmental restoration.
Awol Arba called upon all segments of the Afar community, including agricultural experts and leaders at every level, to not only participate in planting the seedlings but also to commit to their diligent care and nurturing.
According to regional officials, this year's Green Legacy program in Afar aims to cover over 5,400 hectares of land with various types of seedlings.
The launch event saw the attendance of senior regional officials, zonal and woreda administrators, and a significant number of Dubti Woreda residents, all demonstrating collective commitment to the ambitious environmental undertaking.