The North East Region is expected to plant 445,000 tree seedlings under the national Tree for Life initiative aimed at increasing forest cover and addressing the effects of climate change.

Speaking during a tree-planting exercise, the Municipal Chief Executive, Bukari Bariche David, underscored the importance of tree planting in environmental protection, the prevention of desertification and the promotion of public health.

He noted that the region has experienced irregular rainfall patterns in recent years and called on residents to support efforts to restore and protect the environment.

Mr David also observed that trees planted during previous exercises are growing well and urged farmers and community members to work together to protect forests and promote sustainable development.

The North East Regional Forestry Commission explained that the Tree for Life initiative is observed nationwide during the first week of June to encourage tree planting and improve ecosystem services, food security and timber resources.

According to the commission, the national target for this year is 30 million seedlings, with 445,000 allocated to the North East Region. Of that number, 80 per cent will be planted in forest reserves, while the remaining 20 per cent will be distributed to individuals.

The commission identified bushfires as one of the major threats to tree-planting efforts and appealed to the public to help protect newly planted trees.

It also disclosed that farmers who make land available for tree planting under the programme will receive 40 per cent of the proceeds when the trees are harvested.

As part of measures to sustain the initiative, the Forestry Commission has established checkpoints to collect levies from charcoal traders, with the proceeds being used to support tree-planting activities.

A representative of the Nayiri, MBA Akara, said the traditional authority fully supports the initiative, noting that the reduction in tree cover has contributed to declining rainfall in the area.

“The Nayiri is fully supporting the tree planting project because less trees causes a little amount of rain fall,” he said.

Stakeholders at the event called on residents, farmers and community leaders to actively support the programme to help safeguard the environment and promote sustainable development across the region.