On 18 July 2025, the University of Juba, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, successfully hosted the 4th Ethio–South Sudan Green Legacy Initiative Tree Planting Programme at the University’s Custom Campus. Held under the theme, “Renewal Through Planting,” the event underscored the growing urgency for environmental restoration, climate resilience, and sustainable development across the region.
Launched in 2019 by H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia, the Green Legacy Initiative is one of the world’s largest reforestation campaigns. Under the theme, “Together We Plant Trees, Together We Save Mother Earth,” the initiative aims to plant 54 billion trees by 2026, with over 40 billion trees already planted in Ethiopia as of 2024.
In his address, Professor Robert Mayom Deng, Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, emphasized the pressing need to tackle deforestation and desertification in South Sudan. He warned of the severe consequences of unchecked environmental degradation and expressed deep appreciation to the Ethiopian Embassy for its continued partnership in advancing environmental sustainability in South Sudan.
Ambassador Solomon Mamo, Chargé d’Affaires of the Ethiopian Embassy in South Sudan, highlighted the symbolic planting of 200 tree seedlings as a tangible commitment to building climate resilience. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to fostering regional environmental cooperation through the Green Legacy Initiative.
The event was further graced by the presence of Ambassador Philip Jada Natana, Director General of Bilateral Relations in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation, Republic of South Sudan. His attendance signified strong governmental support for environmental diplomacy and the growing collaboration between South Sudan and Ethiopia.
Mr. Addis S. Zewdie, Second Secretary at the Ethiopian Embassy, provided a progress update on the initiative’s impact. Since its inception, Ethiopia’s forest cover has increased from 17.2% in 2019 to 23.6% in 2024, with a national goal of reaching 30% forest cover by 2030.
He also highlighted the programme’s broader objectives, which include enhancing ecological resilience, fostering environmental awareness, and generating socio-economic benefits across East Africa. South Sudan has been an active participant since 2022, launching its own tree-planting efforts to promote unity and environmental stewardship.
Following the main session, guests gathered at the School of Public Service Lounge for a networking and health break, where they were treated to traditional Ethiopian coffee and bread. This informal segment of the programme fostered cultural exchange and strengthened community ties among participants.
The event concluded with the planting of 200 tree seedlings in the northeastern and northwestern sections of the Custom Campus. This symbolic act reflected a shared commitment to regional cooperation, sustainable development, and proactive climate action.
The University of Juba is proud to be an active partner in this transformative regional initiative. The University remains committed to working alongside the Ethiopian Embassy and other stakeholders in promoting environmental education, sustainability, and green development in South Sudan and beyond.
~ Ms. Ann P. James