PM Abiy Describes Green Legacy Initiative as an Integral Part of Nation State Building Efforts for Better Future

Addis Ababa, June 28, 2025 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized that the Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) program is an integral part of Ethiopia’s nation state building efforts—promoting unity, inclusivity, and collective action for a better future.

 Prime Minister Abiy, alongside Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima, diplomatic dignitaries, and senior government officials, has officially launched this year’s Green Legacy Initiative program, setting an ambitious target of planting 7.5 billion tree seedlings.

It was also announced that 7.5 billion seedlings will be planted nationwide under this year's Green Legacy Initiative program, under the theme: “Renewal Through Planting.”

The Premier highlighted Ethiopia’s remarkable achievements under the Green Legacy Initiative, which has united millions of citizens in a collective commitment to environmental sustainability.

PM Abiy also noted that Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative program has engaged broad public participation, played a pivotal role in national renewal, and is rooted in a forward-looking vision for future generations.

The voluntary efforts of millions of Ethiopians through the Green Legacy Initiative program have showcased the power of synergy, making the program both monumental and distinctive, the Prime Minister further emphasized.

He underscored that the initiative is more than a reforestation effort, it is a people-centered movement driving national development, environmental sustainability, and long-term resilience.

 He added that, beyond environmental protection, the program has also created significant potential for ensuring food sovereignty in the country.

He further noted that Ethiopia’s experience offers a valuable lesson for Africa, not only in achieving food self-sufficiency but also in becoming a source of support for others.

 He emphasized that Ethiopia’s efforts toward food sovereignty and environmental protection have gained international recognition,  cited the recent food systems conference co-hosted by Ethiopia and the United Nations in Addis Ababa, as well as the African Climate Change Conference, both of which acknowledged Ethiopia’s achievements in these areas.

 The Prime Minister also stated that the current generation has a responsibility to transform Ethiopia’s challenging past and build a better nation for future generations, a goal that requires dedication and hard work.

 In this context, he emphasized that the GLI is an integral part of the nation-building process, being carried out collectively by all citizens without exception.

 He also called on Ethiopians to actively take part in the program by planting trees in their communities.