Addis Ababa, August 10, 2025 (FMC) – The African Union (AU) Staff Association has hailed Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) as a shining example of climate action on the continent and an inspiration for global environmental efforts.
Nouhou Thiam, President of the AU Staff Association and Head of the AU Policy Organ Division, lauded the Green Legacy Initiative as a landmark contribution to the worldwide fight against climate change.
Speaking at a joint tree planting campaign organized by the AU Staff Association and the Addis Ababa City Administration’s Community Participation and Voluntarism Coordination Commission in Yeka Sub-City, Thiam praised Ethiopia for advancing the initiative “in a very perfect way,” highlighting its transformative impact.
Ethiopia recently set a new national record by planting 714.7 million seedlings in a single day on July 31, 2025, as part of its ambitious Green Legacy Initiative. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed hailed the milestone, noting that “once again, Ethiopians have proven that incredible things happen when we come together,” and emphasizing the broad engagement of citizens, institutions, and international partners.
Describing the GLI as a cherished Ethiopian tradition that is “transforming the country’s landscape, rewriting history, and reshaping the face of the world,” Thiam stressed that tree planting is a living investment with environmental and social benefits that extend far beyond Ethiopia’s borders.
He cited recent cyclones, storms, and wildfires as reminders of the urgency to restore ecosystems, warning that “the environment is in danger.” Thiam underscored the regulatory role trees play in preserving nature and water resources, and commended Addis Ababa’s ongoing cleanliness and greening efforts.
Calling for intensified public mobilization at all levels — from governments to villages — he urged that tree planting be matched with sustained care. “We must sensitize more people and expand involvement from the government level to communities, neighborhoods, and cities, as we are doing today,” he said.
AU staff member John Magok also praised Ethiopia’s leadership under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, saying the initiative sets a powerful example for African nations such as South Sudan in combating deforestation and promoting clean air. “We are planting for our continent, and we appreciate Ethiopia for leading the way,” he said.
Participant Moroesi Putsoa shared her commitment to the cause despite having a broken arm. “Climate change is close to my heart. This Green Legacy is something we are leaving for our children and future generations,” she said, recalling similar projects from her childhood in Lesotho and urging other African nations to follow Ethiopia’s lead.
Yimer Kebede, Commissioner of the Addis Ababa City Administration’s Community Participation and Voluntarism Coordination Commission, noted that the presence of African participants demonstrated the initiative’s cross-border significance, ENA reported. “Today, we planted avocado and other tree seedlings — a gift for future generations,” he said.
Ethiopia aims to plant 7.5 billion trees during this year’s rainy season, contributing to a cumulative target of 54 billion trees by 2026. The program underscores the nation’s commitment to climate resilience, environmental restoration, and sustainable development.