The European Union (EU) has committed €6 million (GHS 86.4 million) to directly fund forest restoration projects in Ghana. These efforts are part of the 'Tree for Life Initiative' and aim to restore 14,000 hectares of forest by 2027.
This significant funding addresses Ghana's urgent need to restore degraded land. Illegal mining, widespread deforestation, and the impacts of climate change threaten food security, water supplies, and rural livelihoods across the nation. The initiative will also build the capacity of 20,000 farmers and rural residents, with a specific focus on empowering women and youth.
Ghana's economy heavily relies on agriculture and natural resources, making sustainable land management critical. Data from the Forestry Commission regularly highlights the alarming rate of forest cover loss due to human activities and environmental factors. This project directly supports Ghana's national restoration drive and efforts to achieve climate resilience, a key focus within the national development agenda.
Silvia Severi, Head of Cooperation at the European Union in Ghana, confirmed the EU's commitment. Speaking at the Forest Restoration Grant Scheme Progress event, she stated, “This is a €6 million initiative which seeks to promote deforestation-free cocoa production, sustainable land use, and climate resilience.” She emphasised the EU's role as a partner and advocate for community-led restoration.
This initiative is expected to strengthen Ghana’s position in sustainable cocoa production and climate change mitigation. Decision-makers will closely monitor the project's progress in restoring degraded lands and empowering local communities. Success in these areas could attract further international investment and support for Ghana’s environmental conservation efforts.
The project runs from late 2025 through 2027. It is being implemented by the European Forest Institute under the EU Sustainable Forest and Cocoa Programme. This programme supports non-profit and local organisations. These organisations implement restoration projects across Ghana’s High Forest and Savanna ecological zones.
Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson noted the broader impact of these projects. He said they go beyond simply restoring land. They help communities create sustainable livelihoods. They also build local skills. This ensures the restoration efforts have a long-term benefit. Macdona Yunus from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources stressed the need to nurture planted trees. This ensures their survival and the success of the programme. The Ministry plans to integrate community tree planting into the national restoration drive.
Nana Opoku Bosompem, Western Regional Manager of the Forestry Commission, highlighted climate change as a major threat. He noted that erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and forest fires degrade Ghana's forest cover. These impacts threaten biodiversity. He called for increased tree planting. He stressed its importance in cooling the earth and mitigating climate change effects. Locals at the event displayed placards promoting tree planting and environmental protection.