The Bono East Regional Forestry Commission, in partnership with the Nkoranza Municipal Assembly, has officially launched and commemorated the 2026 Tree for Life restoration initiative in Nkoranza. The program aims to restore the environment, increase forest cover, and combat climate change. It drew a diverse crowd, including government officials, traditional leaders, students, religious groups, and environmental stakeholders from across the region.
The event was chaired by Okokyerehene Nana Kwasi Adjei III, Krontihene of the Nkoranza Traditional Area, who represented the Paramount Chief. Other dignitaries included:
· Hon. Godfred Dapaa – Municipal Chief Executive, Nkoranza South
· Hon. Patrick Effah – District Chief Executive, Nkoranza North
· Alhaji Adam Ali – NDC Constituency Chairman, Nkoranza South
· Rev. Fr. Kingsley Dwamena Asante – Bono East Regional Director of Education
Free seedlings to be distributed from June 5–30
Addressing participants, Mr. David Kwaku Appiagyei, Bono East Regional Manager of the Forestry Commission, announced that the tree planting exercise will run from June 5 to June 30, 2026. During this period, tree seedlings will be distributed free of charge to individuals, organizations, religious bodies, and the general public.
“Anyone can visit any Forestry Commission office to request seedlings for planting,” Mr. Appiagyei said. “However, although the seedlings are given out free, we encourage beneficiaries not to abandon them after collection. We urge everyone to plant the seedlings and nurture them to maturity so that the purpose of this important program can be fully achieved.”
Traditional leader: Tree loss affecting rainfall patterns
Speaking on behalf of the Paramount Chief of Nkoranza, Okokyerehene Nana Kwasi Adjei III noted that despite many years of tree planting efforts in Ghana, the country continues to lose a significant number of trees.
“Tree planting has been in existence for many years, yet we are still unable to meet our targets because we continue to lose a lot of trees – and this has affected rainfall and the environment,” he said. “Government is playing its part through various environmental and afforestation initiatives, but it is now left to the citizenry to take responsibility by protecting and nurturing trees in their communities.”
Initiative aligns with President Mahama’s vision – Regional Minister
