OUAHIGOYA — The Association for Economic and Social Development of the Northern Region (ADES-Nord) conducted a significant reforestation initiative on August 24, 2024, at the headquarters of the regional chamber of commerce in Ouahigouya, continuing a broader regional campaign to revive the local ecosystem.

According to Burkina Information Agency, president of ADES-Nord, the event aligns with calls from transitional authorities and the head of state, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, for national civic action. The initiative, which drew widespread participation from the community including men, women, and children, aims to enhance the living environment and foster a united regional response to environmental challenges.

The day’s activities, which were part of a delayed response to National Tree Day celebrated on July 13, saw over 200 plants being planted at the site. This gesture was complemented by the distribution of additional plants to various regional entities, marking a commitment by ADES-Nord to annually contribute at least 1000 plants to the reforestation efforts across the four provinces of the region.

The regional secretary general, Kouilga Albert Zongo, praised the efforts of ADES-Nord on behalf of the Northern region’s governor. He highlighted the association’s significant investment in development projects, totaling more than 145 million FCFA over two years, which he described as a vital contribution to regional solidarity and development.

Zongo emphasized the importance of maintaining the newly planted trees to ensure the sustainability of the reforestation efforts. This initiative is seen as a critical step towards restoring and preserving the natural environment in Burkina Faso’s Northern region.