Finance Minister: Green Legacy Now a Deeply Rooted Pillar of Ethiopian Society

Addis Ababa, July 8, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative has evolved from a government-led campaign into a permanent and deeply ingrained national movement, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide said today, describing it as now woven into the very fabric of Ethiopian society.

The Minister made the remarks during a tree-planting event held at Entoto Park in Addis Ababa, where he joined citizens and government officials in reaffirming the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Reflecting on the initiative’s journey over the past seven years, Ahmed emphasized that the Green Legacy has not only promoted large-scale reforestation but also helped cultivate a lasting sense of responsibility toward environmental protection.

“It is now a shared responsibility across all sectors of society. The initiative has become a national mindset — a psychological transformation that recognizes the value of sustainability for future generations,” he noted.

According to the Minister, the institutionalization of the Green Legacy reflects the government’s long-term vision for climate resilience, national unity, and inclusive development.

“Nation-building requires collaboration and public participation, and the Green Legacy Initiative exemplifies this principle,” he added.

Director-General of the Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority, Lelise Neme, echoed this message, stressing that today’s program aimed to further embed a tree-planting culture within Ethiopian society.

She highlighted the initiative’s critical role in addressing climate change and protecting natural resources.

“The Green Legacy directly contributes to mitigating air, water, and soil pollution. Through active participation in environmental efforts, every citizen can play a vital role in safeguarding our natural heritage,” Lelise said.

Federal Procurement and Property Authority Director-General, Meseret Meskele, also called for stronger inter-sectoral collaboration, noting that coordinated efforts across institutions will amplify the impact of the initiative.

“A cleaner and greener Ethiopia can only be realized through united action,” she said, urging all government bodies and communities to stay engaged.

Launched in 2019, the Green Legacy Initiative aims to address deforestation, enhance climate resilience, and promote a culture of environmental care by mobilizing millions of Ethiopians in annual nationwide tree-planting campaigns.