Mogadishu(SONNA)-Somalia has intensified its national environmental efforts as senior government officials led a symbolic tree-planting event in the capital, reinforcing the country’s commitment to combating climate change and environmental degradation.
The Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Daud Aweis Jama, alongside the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Bashir Mohamed Jama, planted trees at the Ministry of Information headquarters in Mogadishu. The activity forms part of a nationwide tree-planting week leading up to April 17, a day dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and green initiatives.
The event aligns with the “Green Somalia” campaign spearheaded by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Launched in August 2022, the ambitious program aims to plant 10 million trees across the country to address the growing threats of desertification, recurrent droughts, and climate change.
Speaking during the launch, Minister Aweis called on citizens across Somalia to actively participate in reforestation efforts, emphasizing the vital role communities play in restoring the nation’s environment. He noted that the Ministry of Information will leverage its media platforms to raise awareness and encourage public engagement in expanding Somalia’s green cover.
The initiative also promotes community-driven actions such as the “1 House, 1 Tree” campaign, which encourages households to contribute directly to environmental restoration. Officials say these efforts are crucial for enhancing biodiversity, improving resilience to climate shocks, and rebuilding ecosystems.
The broader reforestation campaign is overseen by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and reflects the federal government’s increasing focus on sustainability. It has received strong backing from national leadership, including Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, who recently launched related activities at the Prime Minister’s Office.
Authorities hope that sustained public participation and government leadership will help Somalia achieve its environmental targets and secure a greener, more resilient future.
