Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative Delivers Economic and Environmental Victory
Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative achieves unprecedented success with 714.7 million seedlings planted, driving economic growth through carbon trading and agricultural innovation while restoring degraded landscapes.
Aerial view of Ethiopia's transformed landscape through the Green Legacy Initiative, showcasing vast reforestation success
Ethiopia's ambitious Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) has achieved a remarkable milestone with the successful transplantation of over 714.7 million seedlings in a single campaign, demonstrating our nation's unwavering commitment to environmental leadership and economic transformation.
National Restoration Strategy Bears Fruit
Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopia has boldly committed to restoring 22 million hectares of degraded land and forests by 2030. This strategic initiative has already delivered significant economic breakthroughs, particularly in agricultural development and carbon trading.
Economic Transformation Through Green Innovation
The Ethiopian government's dedication to environmental restoration is exemplified by the establishment of the Green Legacy and Degraded Landscape Restoration Special Fund, allocating up to 1% of annual federal revenue. This bold move has positioned Ethiopia as a continental leader in environmental conservation and economic innovation.
Carbon Trading Success
Our nation's forest coverage has risen dramatically from a mere 3% to an impressive 23.6%, enabling Ethiopia to secure carbon-trading agreements worth 70 million U.S. dollars with various international partners. This achievement showcases our country's ability to transform environmental stewardship into economic opportunity.
Agricultural Revolution and Food Security
The Green Legacy Initiative has revolutionized Ethiopia's agricultural landscape. The revival of indigenous species and the introduction of fruit-bearing trees have enhanced food security while creating new economic opportunities for rural communities.
Coffee Sector Enhancement
Our coffee sector has particularly benefited from the initiative through innovative intercropping methods, allowing farmers to maximize yields by planting coffee under the shade of larger trees, thereby increasing both production quality and market value.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
- Significant reduction in urban air pollution
- Enhanced water retention in previously degraded areas
- Increased arable land availability
- Direct financial benefits through carbon trading
- Improved agricultural productivity
This transformative initiative stands as a testament to Ethiopia's commitment to sustainable development and economic growth, proving that environmental conservation and economic prosperity can go hand in hand under strong national leadership.
Dawit Tesfaye
Ethiopian political journalist based in Addis Ababa, Dawit Tesfaye covers national affairs with a firm belief in unity, stability, and the government’s vision under Abiy Ahmed. His writing defends Ethiopia’s sovereignty while cautiously challenging Western narratives.