UNICEF, RUWASA Kick Off Tree Planting Campaign in Adamawa to Combat Desertification
By Auwal Ahmad
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in partnership with the Adamawa State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA), has launched an ambitious tree planting campaign in Guyuk Local Government Area.
The initiative, aimed at marking 2024 World Environmental Day, aligns with this year’s theme: “Accelerating Land Restoration, Drought Resilience, and Desertification Progress.”
During the inauguration event on Thursday, Mr. Williams Wakili, UNICEF WASH facilitator in Adamawa, emphasised the importance of the campaign, stating that the day extends beyond mere symbolic gestures.
“It’s about fostering a culture of environmental consciousness and responsibility. Our focus is on land restoration and building resilience against desertification and drought, crucial issues as we face increasing land degradation.
Read Also: Bongos @ 82: The Oklobian tete syndrome and why Idoma should emulate Bongos & 2Baba
Also speaking, Mr. Tanko Audu, Adamawa Commissioner for Water Resources, who was represented by Permanent Secretary Mr. Mundi Ibrahim, stressed the devastating impact of desert encroachment.
“Desertification is rapidly consuming our land, making afforestation efforts essential. We urge the community to cease indiscriminate tree felling and actively engage in tree planting to safeguard our environment,” Audu urged.
Speaking, Mr. Emmanuel Esly, Programme Manager at RUWASA, underscored the critical link between environmental restoration and rainfall.
“Our changing climate is altering the environment drastically. Without adequate rainfall, we face numerous challenges. It’s imperative that we all contribute to restoring our environment by planting more trees.
In his remark, Dishon Dan-sanda, the traditional ruler of Guyuk LGA, expressed gratitude towards the Adamawa government, UNICEF, and other stakeholders for their proactive steps in environmental protection. “I am committed to enforcing these measures strictly. Indiscriminate felling of trees will not be tolerated unless accompanied by planting new ones,” Dan-sanda assured.
The tree planting campaign is a proactive effort to combat the environmental challenges posed by desertification and drought, aiming to create a more sustainable and resilient future for the region. As part of this initiative, the local community is encouraged to participate actively, ensuring the success and long-term impact of the campaign.
