Akufo-Addo warns of imminent ecological disaster, calls for decisive action against deforestation

In a passionate appeal, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called on global leaders to take immediate action to halt the devastating exploitation of the world’s tropical forests.

Addressing the International Conference on Afforestation and Reforestation in Brazzaville, Congo, he warned that illegal logging, unregulated agriculture, and climate change are ravaging forest ecosystems, threatening biodiversity and ecological balance.

The President emphasized the need for a collective response, urging leaders to “think globally, act locally” and prioritize environmental stewardship alongside development. He stressed that the consequences of inaction would be dire, particularly for vulnerable African nations already bearing the brunt of climate change.

The conference aimed to galvanize global efforts in tree-planting, adopt a declaration on afforestation, and integrate the “African and Global Decade of Afforestation” into the UN Agenda. Aligning with the 2030 Agenda and African Union’s Agenda 2063, the event highlighted forests’ critical role in combating climate change and supporting economic recovery.

President Akufo-Addo underscored the need for dedicated financing to reverse environmental damage, emphasizing that the tropical domain alone cannot fund the required $393 billion annually. He advocated for pooling resources, incentivizing local communities, and investing in research and technology to enhance forest dynamics understanding.

The President reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to forest conservation and restoration, citing the establishment of over one million hectares of forest plantations, enrichment planting, and native tree seedling projects since 2016. The Green Ghana Day Initiative has seen the planting of over 52 million trees in just four years, with enthusiastic participation from citizens, schools, and the private sector.

By emphasizing the ecological, economic, and cultural significance of forests, President Akufo-Addo urged global leaders to join forces in protecting these vital assets for future generations.