KEYIR NEWS - The government has announced plans to plant an astonishing 700 million tree seedlings in a single day on 31 July 2025, as part of its nationally acclaimed Green Legacy Initiative. The one-day mobilisation is a key milestone toward the government’s broader seasonal target of 7.5 billion seedlings during the current rainy season.
The mass tree-planting exercise will involve communities, government institutions, civil society organisations, religious groups, schools, and the private sector across all regions. It is set to be one of the largest environmental actions conducted anywhere in the world within a single day.
Launched in 2019 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the Green Legacy Initiative aims to reverse environmental degradation, combat desertification, and promote sustainable development through afforestation. To date, the programme has resulted in the planting of more than 32 billion trees, transforming the country’s approach to climate resilience and ecological restoration.
“This year’s campaign is more than symbolic,” said a senior government official. “It’s a practical response to climate change and food insecurity. Trees represent life, shade, rain, and economic opportunity.”
The 700 million seedlings expected to be planted in a single day are part of a carefully coordinated nationwide effort. In recent weeks, local administrations have been preparing seedling nurseries, mobilising volunteers, and mapping designated planting areas to ensure logistical readiness.
Environmental experts have praised Ethiopia’s Green Legacy efforts, noting their contribution not only to reforestation but also to improving biodiversity, protecting watersheds, and restoring degraded landscapes. Moreover, fruit-bearing trees have supported livelihoods and food security in rural areas, while urban greenery has helped combat air pollution and heat stress.
International observers have also recognised Ethiopia’s leadership in environmental sustainability. In 2019, the country made headlines for planting over 350 million trees in a single day, setting a global record and raising awareness about climate action in Africa.
This year’s expanded target of 7.5 billion seedlings reflects growing urgency as Ethiopia continues to face the effects of prolonged drought, shifting rainfall patterns, soil erosion, and deforestation. The initiative has gained political, social, and ecological traction across the country.
The Ministry of Agriculture, which oversees implementation, confirmed that multiple types of indigenous and climate-resilient species are being used, including trees suited for agroforestry, timber production, erosion control, and biodiversity conservation.
Citizens are being encouraged to participate actively by planting trees at homes, schools, farmlands, and public spaces. Digital platforms and mobile apps are also being used to track the number of seedlings planted and monitor their survival rates in subsequent months.
As the countdown to July 31st begins, Ethiopia’s ambitious one-day planting campaign is being hailed as a bold and inspiring act of collective environmental stewardship, proof that grassroots participation, when aligned with national policy, can reshape a nation’s future.