In a joint effort, the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) and the Productive Social Safety Net and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) project have officially inaugurated a tree planting initiative in Freetown, 9th October, 2023.

This initiative seeks to actively involve various stakeholders in advancing environmental sustainability and combating deforestation.

The launch event, held at the Freetown City Council Hall, brought together a diverse array of participants, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, local businesses, educational institutions, and concerned citizens. The primary objective is to mobilize these stakeholders for active engagement in a comprehensive tree-planting campaign aimed at addressing the urgent issue of deforestation.

The PSSNYE project, spanning all sixteen districts of Sierra Leone and targeting 100,000 beneficiary households, aims to enhance access to social safety nets and income-generating opportunities. One of its pivotal components, the Green Public Works (GPW) in Urban Areas, focuses on activities that improve sanitary infrastructure, promote environmental restoration, and enhance climate resilience.

Dr. Susan Robert, the Senior Director of Programme Development and Quality Assurance, conveyed greetings on behalf of NaCSA’s Commissioner, Deputy, and Senior Management to the community representatives present. She underscored the collective responsibility in tackling deforestation, stating,

“at this juncture, we must acknowledge that deforestation results from our actions, necessitating a collective and purposeful effort to rejuvenate our green environment.”

Md. Regina Saffa, the Director of Programmes, emphasized the urgency of environmental preservation and called on all Sierra Leoneans to prioritize environmental safety.

She asserted, “It is imperative that we safeguard our environment consciously, with the aim that future generations will be appreciative. Thus, environmental safety becomes a concern for everyone, regardless of their position or educational background; there is an immediate call to action.”

In addition Maada Ngombu, NaCSA’s Director of Field Operations, reiterated the significance of tree planting and expressed confidence in the community representatives’ commitment to the initiative. He remarked, “We have observed the sincere commitment of the community representatives, and undoubtedly, this commitment will manifest when they return to their communities.”

The launch culminated with resolute pledges from various representatives to support the tree-planting initiative led by the Freetown City Council and NaCSA, signaling a collective endeavor to ensure its success. This initiative signifies a substantial stride towards preserving Sierra Leone’s natural environment and nurturing a sustainable future.