Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative Cornerstone for Environmental Dev't, Health, Says WHO

Addis Ababa October 22/2024 (ENA)-The World Health Organization (WHO) has lauded Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative as a cornerstone for environmental development and health improvements.

Dr. Maria Nera, Director of Environment, Climate Change, and Health at the World Health Organization, said that climate change and seasonal fluctuations are among the current global challenges, leading to increasing occurrences of droughts, excessive rainfall, snowfall, and adverse effects for human health.

While international cooperation and development is essential to address the global climate crisis, countries like Ethiopia have embarked on green legacy initiative to mitigate climate change in sustainable manner.

Ethiopia's remarkable achievement of planting 40 billion saplings in the past six years underscores its commitment to building climate-resilient economy, showcasing its dedication to environmental stewardship, the director added.  

Ethiopia's forest cover has experienced a remarkable transformation, increasing from a low point to 23.6%. This achievement is a testament to the country's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Dr. Maria has commended Ethiopia's efforts in this area, emphasizing  that the green initiative is a cornerstone for environmental development and health.

The director highlighted the importance of protecting water bodies as a crucial strategy for reducing waterborne diseases and preventing those caused by climate change. 

Environmental health and human health are inextricably linked. By harming our environment, we inadvertently jeopardize our own well-being. The green initiative,  focused  on tree planting and afforestation, is a vital component of safeguarding our health, according to the director.

By mitigating climate change and protecting water resources, the initiative also shields us from the adverse effects of climate-related challenges and waterborne diseases, Dr. Maria stated.

She further stated that Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative has a profound global significance, serving as an inspiration for other countries in their efforts to mitigate climate change.

Planting saplings contributes to protecting biodiversity, reducing environmental damage, mitigating air pollution, and lowering the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, it may help prevent neurological diseases and safeguard overall health.

Ethiopia, one of Africa's most populous nations, is commendable for its efforts to protect the general health of its citizens, including reducing maternal and child mortality, the director underscored, adding the WHO  will continue to support Ethiopia's initiatives in this regard.

“The Ethiopian government's dedication to reducing maternal and child mortality and increasing vaccine access is a positive step toward improving health coverage and protecting public health. Our support and assistance in these areas will remain steadfast,” the director emphasized.