On June 28, 2024, the Matt25 Foundation and Green for Change Ghana joined forces to support the Chera Women’s Sheabutter Cooperative in a tree-planting initiative to combat deforestation. Held in Chera, the event brought together community members to plant over 2,150 tree seedlings, including Mahogany, Cassia, Teak, Cashew, and Mango.
This effort, aligned with the 2024 Green Ghana Day theme “Growing for a Greener Tomorrow,”. Ghana faces a serious deforestation problem, losing significant forest cover each year. This has disrupted ecosystems, leading to soil degradation, water pollution and loss of biodiversity. The consequences are severe: climate change impacts are worsening, local livelihoods dependent on forest resources are threatened, and wildlife habitats are shrinking. Reforestation efforts like this one are crucial to reversing the damage and protecting the environment for future generations.
The chief of Chera and his elders called the project an important step for the community. The women’s group, known for making shea butter, blessed the new trees with a traditional dance, bringing a sense of hope and celebration to the day.
This tree-planting will not only improve air quality and reduce erosion but also support sustainable farming in the future. Before the planing, participants also received practical training on tree planting and care to ensure the health of the seedlings.
The event was covered by Channel One TV and Eagle Radio, bringing national attention to Chera’s efforts to build a greener, brighter future. 🌱