By Dare Akogun
The Kwara Agro-climatic in Semi-Arid Landscapes (KWACReSAL) has launched a tree planting initiative targeting the cultivation of 160,000 trees to address deforestation, land degradation, and water stress across selected communities in the state.
The project, undertaken in collaboration with the Universal Climate Initiative (UCI), aligns with Component B of the Community Climate Resilience strategy.
The initiative was flagged off by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who emphasized the transformative impact of the program.
Represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, the governor described the exercise as a symbol of hope for a greener future.
“Each tree represents our collective commitment to nurturing our ecosystem and preserving the natural heritage of Kwara State,” he stated.
Governor AbdulRazaq also highlighted the role of partnerships in achieving sustainable development, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, in her remarks lauded the project as a timely intervention in mitigating climate change impacts and fostering afforestation.
The State Project Coordinator, Alhaji Shamsideen Olatunbosun Aregbe, revealed that 35,000 hectares of degraded land have been earmarked for restoration, with 25,000 hectares located in the Lata Grazing Reserve in Patigi.
He praised Governor AbdulRazaq for his support in restoring degraded lands.
Speaking on behalf of UCI, Mr. Opeyemi AbdulHafiz Alao, noted that the project would begin with the planting of 1,600 trees in Ijagbo before expanding to other communities across the state’s 16 local government areas.
The Onijagbo of Ijagbo, HRM Oba Buhari Adeniyi Sharafa, expressed optimism about the initiative, emphasizing the focus on afforestation rather than deforestation.
