Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has once again demonstrated his dedication and commitment to the government’s Green Ghana project by leading the tree planting exercise in the Ashanti Region for the fourth consecutive year.
At a ceremonial tree-planting event held at the Kumasi Golf Course to launch the 2024 edition of Green Ghana Day in the Ashanti Region on Friday, Otumfuo planted a wawa tree to signify his long-term support for the project.
He was accompanied by Benito Owusu-Bio, Chairman of the National Green Ghana Planning Committee, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Members of Parliament, the Forestry Commission Regional Manager, traditional leaders, and others.
His Royal Majesty inspected previously planted trees and encouraged Ghanaians to participate in the event.
In a brief remark, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized the importance of protecting and sustainably managing natural resources, in alignment with the government’s climate action plans.
He cautioned against the destruction of forest covers and river bodies, commending the government for its efforts to protect the country’s vegetative cover.
Benito Owusu-Bio, Chairperson of the National Green Ghana Planning Committee, paid special tribute to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his consistent support since the inception of Green Ghana Day.
He noted that Otumfuo’s commitment highlights the significance and importance of the Green Ghana project and urged all Ghanaians to participate in the event.
“Your Royal Majesty, this year, the President of the Republic has set the national target to 10 million trees. The reason is to give us the avenue to nurture and take care of the trees planted over the last three years. So, we expect to plant at least 10 million trees on this day and Asanteman has always risen to the challenge and this year will not be an exception,” he stated.
“As we plant the trees today, let us make conscious efforts to continue nurturing these plants to help them grow to maturity to ensure a higher survival rate. Your Royal Majesty, on behalf of the President, I wish to thank you and Asanteman for your support in the fight against galamsey and your desire to uplift the image of the Asante Kingdom,” he added.
Mr. Osei-Mensah, the Ashanti Regional Minister, highlighted the importance of the tree planting exercise for the country, emphasizing the vital role trees play in the survival of humanity.
The Regional Minister detailed the numerous benefits of trees, including their medicinal uses, protection of the ecosystem, and contribution to the beautification of the environment, among others.