Addis Ababa, June 16, 2026(AMECO): Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed officially launched Ethiopia’s 2026 Green Legacy Initiative in Bishoftu City, emphasizing that the nationwide environmental campaign will usher the country from a history of dependency into an era of productivity, resilience, and self-reliance.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, the Prime Minister described this year’s Green Legacy campaign as a season of hope, noting that the initiative is being implemented under the theme “Planting Hope.”
Abiy stressed that national sovereignty is not threatened only when foreign forces violate a country’s borders, but also when irreplaceable natural resources such as fertile soil are lost through environmental degradation. He said the Green Legacy Initiative is a strategic effort aimed at protecting Ethiopia’s natural wealth and preserving its ecological heritage.
The Prime Minister noted that Ethiopia has lost significant resources over the years due to soil erosion. He stated that the current generation, like the forefathers who secured victory at the historic Battle of Adwa, is carrying out a new mission of sovereignty by safeguarding the nation’s natural resources for future generations.
According to Abiy, the “Planting Hope” campaign symbolizes the planting of seeds for a brighter future, with roots that will grow into prosperity, wealth, and sustainable development. He described hope as a green mantle that revitalizes the nation, restores degraded land, and renews the spirit of the people.
“The Green Legacy Initiative is transforming Ethiopia from a history of dependency to an era of contribution and achievement,” the Prime Minister said, adding that the program serves as a successful pillar of development by protecting soil from erosion and safeguarding dams from sedimentation.
Abiy also highlighted ongoing efforts to introduce and adapt more than ten new fruit varieties across Ethiopia, a move aimed at strengthening food security and enhancing agricultural productivity. He called on all Ethiopians to actively contribute to the success of the initiative.
He further noted that the Green Legacy Initiative has earned Ethiopia continental leadership and international recognition, urging citizens to strengthen cooperation and collective action in order to leave a prosperous, respected, and environmentally sustainable nation for future generations.
The Prime Minister emphasized that tree planting should be prioritized above all other activities in the coming months to ensure the success of the nationwide campaign.
This year, Ethiopia aims to plant 8 billion seedlings as part of the Green Legacy Initiative. Abiy stated that the country has also set an ambitious target of planting 65 billion seedlings by COP32, further reinforcing Ethiopia’s commitment to climate action, environmental restoration, and sustainable development.
