Addis ababa: The African Union (AU) Staff Association has commended Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative (GLI), describing it as a model for global climate action. Nouhou Thiam, President of the AU Staff Association and Head of the AU Policy Organ Division, has praised Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative as an exemplary contribution to the global fight against climate change.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Thiam spoke during a joint tree planting event organized by the AU Staff Association and the Addis Ababa City Administration’s Community Participation and Voluntarism Coordination Commission in Yeka Sub-City. He commended Ethiopia for raising the ‘green legacy in a very perfect way.’ Ethiopia set a new national record for tree planting, with 714.7 million seedlings planted in a single day on July 31, 2025, as part of the country’s ambitious Green Legacy Initiative.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted the widespread participation from various segments of society, institutions, and international organiz
ations, stating that ‘incredible things happen when we come together.’ Thiam described the GLI as a cherished Ethiopian tradition that is ‘transforming the landscape of Ethiopia, rewriting history, and reshaping the face of the world.’
The planting efforts have continued across the country, with today’s event conducted by African Union staff as part of the ongoing program. Thiam emphasized the importance of trees in generating benefits for human well-being and environmental regulation, considering it part of worldwide efforts to tackle climate change. He cited recent cyclones, storms, and wildfires across the globe to stress the urgency of scaling up tree planting efforts.
Thiam also praised Addis Ababa’s cleanliness and environmental improvements, calling for greater public mobilization at all levels-government, community, neighborhood, and village-to ensure not only the planting but also the maintenance of trees. He underscored the need for more involvement and sensitization across all sectors.
John Mago
k, another AU staff member, lauded Ethiopia’s leadership under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, describing the initiative as a model for African countries such as South Sudan in combating deforestation and promoting clean air. He emphasized the importance of planting for the continent and encouraged neighboring countries like South Sudan to learn from Ethiopia’s example.
Participant Moroesi Putsoa expressed her determination to join the planting campaign despite a broken arm, emphasizing the legacy left for future generations. She recalled similar initiatives from her childhood in Lesotho and encouraged other African nations to adopt Ethiopia’s example.
Addis Ababa City Administration’s Community Participation and Voluntarism Coordination Commissioner, Yimer Kebede, highlighted the cross-country nature of the initiative. He noted that the participation of African brothers and sisters in the planting campaign showcases its widespread appeal. Today’s planting of avocado and other trees aims to benefit future genera
tions.
The program aims to plant 7.5 billion trees this rainy season and a total of 54 billion by 2026, demonstrating Ethiopia’s commitment to climate action and sustainable development.