Nana Odamba Tidibo Kowura, chief of Brewaniase and president of the Ntrubo South Traditional Area in Nkwanta South Municipality (Oti Region), has urged the government to expand the Tree for Life initiative to include high-value tree crops—such as cocoa, cashew, and oil palm—while encouraging active youth participation in the project.
Launched by the government to combat deforestation through nationwide reforestation, Tree for Life is a key environmental sustainability programme. However, Nana Odamba highlighted that integrating economically viable tree crops would not only support ecological health but also boost farmers’ livelihoods.
Speaking at the programme’s launch in Brewaniase, the chief emphasized that adding tree crops would create a long-term, sustainable model benefiting both forests and communities. “Incorporating cocoa, cashew, and oil palm into this initiative can improve food security and promote economic development,” he said.
Echoing this vision, Nkwanta South Municipal Chief Executive, Joseph Antwi Awal, encouraged youth to take an active role in tree planting and agroforestry. He stressed the job creation potential as well as the economic empowerment such integration could bring.
“The youth are the future of our nation,” Mr. Awal stated. “By involving them in these initiatives, we can ensure a greener and more prosperous tomorrow.”
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