Addis ababa: The Board Chair of Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) Hailemariam Dessalegn said that Ethiopia's Green Legacy initiative is emerging as a model for building a climate-resilient economy across the continent.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, former Ethiopian Prime Minister and current AGRA Board Chair Hailemariam Dessalegn stated that Ethiopia's green development drive demonstrates how coordinated national efforts can address climate change while strengthening economic resilience. He noted that the country's strategy is anchored in cross-border and continental cooperation, aligning environmental sustainability with broader development goals across Africa.
The initiative highlights how climate action can coincide with economic transformation and food security. Hailemariam emphasized the critical role of Ethiopia's approach in ensuring food security while preserving natural resources and tackling climate change in line with national commitments. He pointed out that recent development efforts have delivered tangible progress, particularly through large-scale environmental restoration.
Hailemariam elaborated that billions of tree seedlings planted nationwide are laying the foundation for sustainable agriculture while contributing to biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation. Reaffirming the initiative's continental relevance, he noted that Ethiopia's experience offers a practical example for other African countries seeking to build climate-resilient economies.
He stressed the importance of sustaining gains through stronger post-planting care, emphasizing that planting alone is not enough; protecting and nurturing seedlings is essential to ensure long-term impact. Launched in 2019 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the Green Legacy initiative has mobilized millions of Ethiopians to plant more than 48 billion seedlings, supporting ecological restoration, enhancing biodiversity, and reinforcing food security.
The nationwide campaign stands as one of Africa's largest reforestation efforts, contributing to carbon reduction and strengthening long-term environmental and economic resilience.