By Abukar Osman - Reporter
JIGJIGA, 3 August 2026 (Dawan) – Ethiopia's Somali Region has planted 2.652 million trees in a single day across 1,060 hectares, regional authorities said, as part of efforts to combat climate change and restore degraded landscapes.
The tree-planting drive was conducted simultaneously across all zones of the region under Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative, a nationwide environmental programme aimed at increasing forest cover and improving ecological resilience.
The main event in Jigjiga was led by Deputy President Ibrahim Osman Farah, who joined officials in planting trees at the Alamudiin Rehabilitation Centre.
Authorities also inspected ongoing reforms at the facility, which the regional government said are intended to transform correctional centres into institutions focused on education, vocational training, rehabilitation and reintegration.
Similar campaigns were held across the region, including in Ceel-goof village in Moyale district, where Deputy Minister of Irrigation Eng. Abubakar Dakir and other officials participated alongside local residents.
In Gursum district of Fafan Zone, officials planted 16,800 trees, while authorities in Fafan and Shabelle zones combined the environmental campaign with a blood donation drive.
Related articles
Fafan Governor Khadar Ahmed Nur said the initiative aims to protect the environment and prepare a greener future for coming generations.
"We want to increase tree cover, protect the environment and leave future generations with a greener landscape," he said.
Authorities said the campaign also took place across Shabelle, Doollo, Afdheer, Jarar, Qorahay, Erer, Nogob, Liban, Daawa and Sitti zones.
Regional officials said the campaign reflects the Somali Region's broader commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development under Ethiopia's Green Legacy programme.