Addis Ababa — May 25, 2026 — Ethiopia has launched a $40 million Green Legacy Expansion Project aimed at scaling up the country’s successful reforestation and climate resilience initiatives. The five‑year project will benefit more than 423,000 citizens and cover over 67,000 hectares of land across six districts in the Oromia, Amhara, and Central Ethiopia regions.
The initiative builds on Ethiopia’s acclaimed Green Legacy Programme, which has already transformed landscapes through mass tree‑planting and sustainable land management. The new phase focuses on strengthening the resilience of smallholder farmers in areas most vulnerable to climate change, while promoting economic growth through green development.
Kebede Yimam, Director General of the Ethiopian Forestry Development, said the project will enhance citizens’ livelihoods and create a climate‑resilient environment by applying proven Green Legacy practices. He emphasized that the expansion will help communities adapt to climate impacts while supporting sustainable development goals.
Dr. Margaret Oduk, senior expert at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), praised Ethiopia’s progress, noting that the initiative will serve as a catalyst for broader environmental transformation. “Ethiopia is achieving remarkable results through its Green Legacy initiative,” she said. “This new project will further leverage those experiences to ensure the holistic well‑being of citizens.”
The Green Legacy Expansion Project represents a major step toward Ethiopia’s long‑term vision of environmental sustainability, community empowerment, and climate resilience — reaffirming the nation’s leadership in green development across Africa.
