Group launches tree-planting campaign to mitigate climate change

Climate Action Africa, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has launched a tree-planting campaign to address environmental degradation in Africa.

Grace Oluchi Mbah, CEO of Climate Action Africa, announced the development on Wednesday at the Climate Action Africa Forum (CAAF24) in Lagos.

Mbah said the organisation’s ‘Billion Trees for Africa’ project will enhance the ecological and economic resilience of African communities.

She added that the NGO, through its green economy programs, will support 5,000 African innovators by 2035.

“The challenges are stark: Africa is warming nearly faster than any other region, with 130 million people at risk from rising sea levels,” she said.

“Yet, the impact of climate change is on smallholder farmers who make up 60% of our population and produce 90% of our food. Their lives and livelihoods are on the frontlines of this existential threat.

“We at Climate Action Africa live on the premise that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. A future that is sustainable, green, prosperous and harmonious with nature — that is the story of Africa we choose to write.

“It is this drive that motivates us to boldly announce today the launch of our Billion Trees for Africa Initiative under our community programs.

“This ambitious project aims to address environmental degradation and enhance the ecological and economic resilience of African communities.

“We reaffirm our commitment to nurturing innovators and climate solutions through our new Pan-African Green Economy Program (PAGE).

“Created in partnership with IDEA AFRICA and the Founder Institute, PAGE aims to support 5,000 innovators across the continent by 2035.

“Recognising the critical role of investment in climate action, we are proud to support the Pan African Climate Action Fund.

“A $20 million initial investment fund, co-created by dedicated Africans, which seeks to empower small growing businesses and startups in the energy, agriculture, circularity and transportation sectors.”