The Lawra District as part of its efforts to combat climate change and inculcate in citizens the habit of afforestation took off a one month tree planting exercise with a commemorative tree planting meeting at the Lambussie SHS on Friday, 5th June, 2026.
Lawra Forest District Manager, Mr. Victor Oduro emphasized the growing environmental challenges facing the area, particularly deforestation and its impact on climate patterns and agricultural productivity.
According to him, human activities such as charcoal production, indiscriminate tree felling during farming, and bush burning have significantly contributed to forest degradation in the district. These practices, he explained, have led to noticeable changes in rainfall patterns and declining crop yields, affecting livelihoods across the region.
“We are no longer receiving rains at the expected times, and our crop yields have reduced. This is a direct result of the destruction of our forests,” he stated.
The District Manager highlighted that the initiative forms part of a national effort by the government, through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission, to plant 30 million tree seedlings across the country within the month of June. The Lambussie event marked the beginning of a month-long tree planting exercise scheduled from June 5 to June 30. As part of the launch, seedlings were planted within the school premises to symbolize the start of the campaign.
He further announced that additional seedlings will be made available at the District Assembly and the Lawra Forestry Office to ensure easy access for residents.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Lambussie, Hon. Iraneous Basingbie, officially launched this year’s Tree for Life Programme, and called on residents to take urgent action against deforestation and environmental degradation in the district.
Speaking at the programme, the DCE expressed concern over the growing impact of deforestation and desertification, describing them as major environmental challenges affecting not only Ghana but the Lambussie District in particular. He noted that these issues are contributing to declining agricultural productivity, increasing poverty, food insecurity, water shortages, and migration in search of greener pastures.
Hon. Basingbie emphasized that the northern parts of Ghana, including Lambussie, are among the most affected areas, making it necessary for all citizens to actively participate in reversing the trend. He urged residents, regardless of age or gender, to protect the remaining trees and embrace tree planting as a collective responsibility.
“It is imperative for every Ghanaian to jealously protect the trees we have and consider tree planting a sacred duty,” he stated.
The DCE further reiterated government’s commitment to tackling environmental degradation through decisive measures. He highlighted ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and protect water bodies, including the establishment of specialized task forces and enforcement measures to address activities that threaten the environment.
He however warned against illegal practices such as indiscriminate tree felling for charcoal, stressing that such acts are unlawful and will not be tolerated.
Hon. Basingbie also reminded the public of the long-term consequences of environmental neglect, quoting a popular saying: “When the last tree dies, the last man dies.”
He concluded by reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment to safeguarding the environment and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
The event brought together traditional leaders, religious leaders, Heads of Departments and Services, community members, students, teachers and forestry staff, all united in the effort to promote environmental conservation and sustainable development in the district.
Reporter: James Baba Anabiga
