U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Stephanie S. Sullivan, commemorated ‘Green Ghana Day’ by planting a Lignum Vitae tree on the U.S. Embassy grounds. The chosen tree is commonly referred to as the ‘tree of life’ or ‘wood of life’, due to its traditional medicinal use as a remedy for arthritis and coughs.
Ambassador Sullivan also launched a tree-nursery at the Embassy for indigenous and non-native species to contribute in our collective efforts to reforest Ghana with rich and diverse trees which provide vital products and amenities – including quality habitat for wildlife; biodiversity of plant and animal communities that form a vital part of the ecosystem; and recreational opportunities.
During the event, Ambassador Sullivan appreciated the initiative of President Nana Akufo-Addo, along with the enthusiasm of Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Samuel Abu Jinapor, for highlighting the critical need to restore Ghana’s forest cover and to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emissions in the atmosphere.
The U.S. Embassy looks forward to working with Ghanaians to support policies and programmes that restore and conserve forests and water-bodies; stop illegal logging, mining (galamsey); Illegal, Unreported, Unregulated [IUU] fishing; and plastic pollution.
“Prompt reforestation is critical. The goal of 5 million trees set by the government of Ghana is an ambitious but necessary one; so we must all do our part, one tree or many at a time. I strongly encourage Ghanaians to embark on restoring Ghana’s forest cover, repair degraded landscapes, and protect water-bodies,” said the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Stephanie S. Sullivan
