Experts praise Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative for promoting clean energy and sustainable growth

Addis Ababa, August 22, 2024 (FBC) – Climate and environmental experts gathered at the 46th meeting of the Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG) in Addis Ababa from August 19-22 have commended Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative for enhancing access to clean energy and promoting a climate-resilient green economy.

In an interview with FBC, Linus Mofor, Senior Environmental Affairs Officer at the African Climate Policy Center at UNECA emphasized that the Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) plays a vital role in addressing the adverse effects of climate change. He noted Ethiopia’s progress in securing funding for its climate-resilient strategies, describing the initiative as exemplary.

The LEG meeting provided a valuable platform for countries to learn from Ethiopia’s efforts in building resilience against climate change, allowing experts and stakeholders to exchange experiences and insights on climate action.

“We are pleased that the 46th meeting of the LEG aligns with Ethiopia’s National Tree Planting Week, presenting a unique opportunity to witness first-hand the initiatives Ethiopia is implementing to combat climate change,” Mofor remarked.

Ethiopia’s tree planting efforts, led by the Green Legacy Initiative, are essential for preventing soil erosion and safeguarding hydroelectric dams from siltation, thus supporting the country’s ambition to become a regional hub for green energy. Additionally, the initiative fosters job creation and promotes inclusive, sustainable growth.

Mofor highlighted Ethiopia’s commitment to a climate-resilient green economy, noting the shift towards electric vehicles and industrialization based on renewable energy sources. He asserted that the Green Legacy Initiative is well-aligned with this national agenda.

Paul V. Desanker, Manager of the Response Subdivision Adaptation Programme at the United Nations Climate Change Secretariat, echoed these sentiments, stating that Ethiopia has implemented a national green economy strategy aimed at fostering a low-carbon economy, with the Green Legacy Initiative at its core.

Desanker elaborated that Ethiopia is undertaking a large-scale tree planting initiative, which complements other national programs aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building a climate-resilient economy. He praised the coordinated approach of the Green Legacy Initiative, which involves both federal institutions and community engagement, as a key factor in its success.

He concluded, “Ethiopia’s commitment to restoring ecosystems and tackling climate change through tree planting is commendable, and I believe other countries can learn valuable lessons from Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative.”