Green Legacy becomes cornerstone of Ethiopia’s sustainable dev’t efforts — Deputy PM

Addis Ababa, July 31, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Temesgen Tiruneh, underscored the significant contributions of the Green Legacy Initiative to both economic growth and environmental restoration during today’s nationwide campaign to plant 700 million tree seedlings.

Participating in the one-day mass tree planting campaign in Jigjiga, the capital of the Somali Region, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen emphasized that the Green Legacy Initiative, launched seven years ago, has become a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s sustainable development efforts.

He highlighted that the initiative has supported the planting of diverse seedlings, including commercially valuable species such as coffee and avocado, which have played a crucial role in boosting Ethiopia’s export earnings and strengthening rural livelihoods.

“The Ethiopian economy has demonstrated strong growth, with the Green Legacy program contributing significantly to this success,” Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen said.

He pointed out that seedlings planted in areas with low rainfall have helped improve fragile ecosystems, enhancing climate resilience and biodiversity.

Referring specifically to the Somali Region, historically known as a pastoral area, he noted considerable agricultural expansion driven by government reforms and the Green Legacy program. He cited notable progress in rice cultivation and increased production of vegetables, fruits, and wheat.

Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen also mentioned the region’s promising mining sector and ongoing infrastructure developments, including corridor projects, as part of broader efforts to boost regional economic potential.

He further explained that under the Green Footprint Program, Ethiopia aims to plant 50 billion seedlings by next year, building on the expected planting of 7.5 to 8 billion seedlings this year.

Calling on all Ethiopians to unite in today’s campaign, he described the 700 million seedlings planned for planting in one day as a historic act of collective renewal and national pride under the theme “Renewal through Planting.”