By Love Wilhelmina Abanonave
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced plans to plant over 30 million trees this year, replicating last year’s effort as part of the government’s commitment to forest conservation, protection of medicinal heritage, and building sustainable livelihoods.
Speaking at the 2026 World Wildlife Day celebration on March, 4 the minister highlighted the potential of the medicinal plant sector, describing it as a billion-dollar green economy that can provide jobs for young people and women. He urged entrepreneurs to invest in cultivating medicinal and aromatic plants to reduce pressure on natural reserves.
“When you see a tree, you must see wood, oxygen, medicine and life. Under the ‘One Child, One Tree’ policy, we will be planting over 30 million trees this year,” he said.
Mr Armah-Kofi Buah also stressed the importance of community involvement in conservation, noting that the policy encourages students to plant trees and build a lasting legacy.
He commended traditional authorities for protecting biodiverse areas long before formal conservation laws were introduced.
He added that the government remains committed to biodiversity conservation through the National Forest and Wildlife Policy, enforcement of environmental regulations, and landscape restoration initiatives.
The 2026 World Wildlife Day theme, “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” highlights the importance of safeguarding these plants for healthcare, cultural heritage, and economic development.
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