Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative Boosts Water ResourcesBurkina Faso Enforces Prison Sentences for Disrespecting National Symbols

ADDIS ABABA – The Green Legacy Initiative (GLI), a cornerstone environmental campaign in Ethiopia, has significantly contributed to the enhancement of the nation’s water resources, according to Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Etefa. The initiative is pivotal in augmenting both surface and ground water levels and ensuring the structural integrity of dams across the country.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the GLI, endorsed and propelled by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed since 2019, aims to counter environmental degradation and affirm Ethiopia’s status as the continent’s water tower. The campaign has successfully planted over 32.5 billion tree seedlings, aligning with Ethiopia’s ambitious environmental objectives.

Minister Habtamu elaborated on the initiative’s significant impact on rejuvenating the country’s spring water sources, which have been adversely affected by climate change. The GLI’s emphasis on afforestation and reforestation has been instrumental in elevating surface and subterranean water volumes, thereby enhancing the overall hydrologic cycle and water storage capacity.

Furthermore, the initiative plays a critical role in sediment control, aiding in the prevention of dam siltation and ensuring their operational longevity. This concerted effort not only sustains water resources but also aids in mitigating the adverse effects of drought, which are exacerbated by climatic shifts.

The minister highlighted ongoing efforts to bolster drought resilience, noting that the Ethiopian government has initiated numerous water resource projects across over 80 districts. These endeavors aim to secure and stabilize water supply, particularly focusing on access to potable water.

Additionally, the GLI’s contributions extend to safeguarding agricultural productivity and community livelihoods, reinforcing Ethiopia’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. The minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to advancing these initiatives, ensuring they remain integral to the nation’s ecological and economic fabric.

OUAGADOUGOU – In Burkina Faso, individuals found disrespecting the country’s national symbols face prison sentences ranging from two months to two years, the Grand Chancellery of Burkinabè Orders emphasized during a recent educational event. This warning was issued as part of a broader initiative to educate the youth about the importance of national symbols and promote a sense of citizenship and respect for the state.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Director of Communication and Press Relations at the Grand Chancellery, the announcement was made during a conference held at the Charles Lavigerie Technical High School in Kamboinsin, located in district no. 9 of Ouagadougou. The event aimed to inform students about the significance of the national emblem, coat of arms, national anthem, and national motto, which are outlined in Article 34 of the Constitution as key symbols of Burkina Faso representing the country and its collective identity.

Kaboré explained the various forms the national flag takes, including the hall flag, which symbolizes authority in government ministries, the mortuary flag, vehicle and table pennants for official use, and the pennant for popular use, alongside the national or mast flag reserved for administrative buildings and embassies. He also delved into the elements comprising the coat of arms and the national motto, as well as the national anthem, described as a song of victory and salvation for the Burkinabè people.

The session was part of efforts to familiarize students at the Lavigerie technical high school with the state’s symbols. Rose Somboro, the head of the Charles Lavigerie technical high school, highlighted the timing of these discussions as pivotal for instilling a sense of citizenship and good manners among students. She emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting the institutions and emblems of the state as fundamental aspects of being a good citizen.

Students, including Perfect Silga from class 4eB and Chérifatou Kaboré from class AC2, expressed their appreciation for the knowledge gained regarding the national motto, flag, and anthem, underscoring the educational value of the conference in promoting pride in their country and the principles of good citizenship.