LocationsGhana Marks World Environment Day with the Launch of ‘One Child, One Tree’ Initiative
June 5, 2025
UNDP Ghana's Resident Representative, Niloy Banerjee planting his tree together with Prince Amedor Project Aisstant, UNDP Ghana
Every year, on 5th June, World Environment Day is observed globally to raise awareness and mobilize action on urgent environmental challenges. In 2025, the theme focused on beating plastic pollution, a growing crisis affecting communities, ecosystems, and economies.
In Ghana, the World Environment Day was commemorated with a high-level event led by the President, underscoring the country's commitment to environmental sustainability. The event focused on two key objectives: raising public awareness about plastic use and waste management, and the launch of a major national tree planting campaign. The new initiative, “One Child, One Tree”, part of the Government's "Tree for Life Restoration" programme, is designed to engage and encourage students and young people to plant and nurture trees across the country for ecosystem enhancement.
UNDP Ghana joined H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST) and the Environmental Protection Authority at the Kwabenya Senior High School to plant the first trees under the initiative which has targeted to plant more than 30 million trees across Ghana by the end of July 2025.
UNDP Ghana’s Resident Representative, Niloy Banerjee, speaking at the launch, highlighted the importance of empowering the next generation to act for nature.
“World Environment Day is a powerful reminder to act decisively for our planet. UNDP stands firmly behind the Government of Ghana’s efforts, including the ‘One Child, One Tree’ initiative, which is an impactful step towards ecosystem restoration, climate resilience, and nurturing a generation that values and protects nature”, he noted.
Mr Niloy Banerjee, Resident Representative in Ghana, in shot by his planted tree
The Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, said the programme serves both symbolic and practical purposes.
“Environmental protection begins with the small actions we take today. The ‘One Child, One Tree’ initiative is both practical and symbolic. We see this as a critical step in engaging young people directly in restoring our environment and helping to shape a greener, more sustainable Ghana for tomorrow”, said Murtala
Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, giving his remarks
H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana reaffirmed the government’s commitment to climate action and sustainable development.
“The importance of safeguarding our environment cannot be overstated. The Government of Ghana will continue to prioritise climate action through initiatives like the ‘One Child, One Tree’ programme not only to restore our ecosystems, but to reduce the harsh impacts of climate change and ensure a safer, healthier future for generations to come.”
H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana giving his remarks
Both economic and fruit trees are to be planted in selected schools and communities across the country to improve micro-climates of communities and support food security, improve the local environment, and contribute to long-term climate resilience.
By linking national restoration goals with youth involvement, the “One Child, One Tree” initiative is setting a practical example of “think global, act local” and also how climate action can start early and grow deep roots in communities.
Group photo from the tree planting
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