AMN PLUS-July 30, 2026
Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative is a nationwide tree-planting campaign launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) in June 2019 to combat climate change, restore degraded landscapes, and promote green economic growth. Since its inception, the initiative has mobilized millions of Ethiopians to plant more than 48 billion seedlings across the country.
This year, Ethiopia has set an ambitious target of planting over 8 billion seedlings, with 800 million seedlings to be planted in a single day on August 3, 2026.
The nation is once again preparing to make history. United by a common purpose, Ethiopians have finalized preparations for the nationwide campaign, which aims to surpass last year’s remarkable achievement of planting over 700 million seedlings in a single day—a feat that set a global record.
Held under the theme “Let’s Plant Hope,” this year’s Green Legacy Initiative is taking place during the rainy season with broad public participation. The campaign reflects Ethiopians’ shared commitment to environmental stewardship, climate action, and sustainable development.
The planned one-day planting of 800 million seedlings is expected to build on the country’s previous success while demonstrating the unity, determination, and collective spirit of the Ethiopian people.
Since the Green Legacy Initiative began in 2019, the country’s forest cover has increased to 23.6 percent, supported by the planting of more than 48 billion seedlings nationwide.
As part of this year’s campaign, more than 8 billion seedlings will be planted across Ethiopia. In Addis Ababa alone, over 4 million seedlings have already been planted within a month, out of the city’s target of 6 million seedlings.
The Green Legacy Initiative is closely aligned with Ethiopia’s long-term development goals. It strengthens soil and water conservation, expands irrigation to enhance food security, and promotes climate-resilient agricultural practices while contributing to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration.
The initiative has also gained international recognition, serving as a model for other African countries pursuing large-scale environmental restoration. Members of the diplomatic community in Addis Ababa, along with representatives of international organizations, are also participating in this landmark national campaign.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called on all Ethiopians to take part in the historic nationwide tree-planting effort on August 3, 2026. By participating, citizens will help mitigate the impacts of climate change, restore ecosystems, strengthen food security, and leave a lasting green legacy for future generations.
By Leta Teresa
