Diplomatic Community Rallies Behind Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (FMC) – Members of the diplomatic community joined Ethiopian officials in a tree-planting campaign under the Green Legacy Initiative on Tuesday, reaffirming a shared commitment to addressing climate change, restoring ecosystems, and advancing sustainable development through collective global action.

Held at Entoto Park, the event underscored growing international support for Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, which has evolved into one of the world’s largest environmental restoration campaigns.

Speaking on the occasion, State Minister of Foreign Affairs Hadera Abera said environmental protection is a shared global responsibility that demands stronger international cooperation.

“The participation of the diplomatic community reflects the understanding that climate change is a global challenge that no country can address alone,” he said.

The state minister stressed that enhanced collaboration among nations is essential to building a more resilient and sustainable future.

Highlighting the achievements of the Green Legacy Initiative since its launch in 2019, Hadera noted that millions of Ethiopians have taken part in the nationwide campaign, with more than 50 billion tree seedlings planted across the country.

According to him, the initiative is restoring degraded landscapes, conserving biodiversity, strengthening climate resilience, improving water and soil resources, and creating green employment opportunities while supporting Ethiopia’s broader sustainable development agenda.

Hadera further emphasized that Ethiopia’s environmental ambitions are closely linked to its expanding international engagement, noting that continued cooperation with diplomatic missions and development partners will further strengthen the country’s climate and environmental efforts.

Also speaking at the event, Director General of the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority Kumera Wakjira commended members of the diplomatic community for participating in the nationwide campaign, describing their involvement as a strong demonstration of international partnership in environmental stewardship.

He said the event went beyond symbolic tree planting, reflecting a shared commitment to nature conservation, ecosystem restoration, biodiversity protection, and the pursuit of a climate-resilient future.

Kumera described the Green Legacy Initiative as one of the world’s most ambitious environmental restoration programs, demonstrating Ethiopia’s commitment to climate action, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development.

He noted that habitat loss, deforestation, land degradation, and climate change continue to pose significant threats to wildlife and ecosystems, adding that Ethiopia is addressing these challenges through ecosystem restoration, protected area management, and community-based conservation initiatives.

Underscoring the significance of the venue, Kumera said Entoto Park serves as an important ecological, recreational, and tourism destination, functioning as a key watershed, biodiversity habitat, and green space for the capital.

“Every tree planted contributes to cleaner air, greater carbon sequestration, improved soil and water conservation, and healthier habitats for wildlife, while also supporting sustainable livelihoods,” he said.

The participation of diplomats in the campaign reflects the growing international recognition of Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative as a practical model for collective climate action and highlights the importance of global partnerships in addressing shared environmental challenges.