Rome, Italy – Ethiopian Prime Minister H.E. Abiy Ahmed Ali reaffirmed his country’s leadership in environmental conservation and sustainable development as he joined world leaders at the opening of the Second United Nations Food Systems Summit, co-hosted by Ethiopia and Italy.
In a powerful gesture of unity and commitment to sustainability, Prime Minister Abiy and fellow Heads of State and Government planted Green Legacy seedlings, symbolizing a shared pledge to integrate environmental stewardship into the global food systems agenda.
“Together with the leaders of different countries that were present at the opening of the second United Nations food systems conference organized by Ethiopia and Italy, we have left our #GreenPrint,” said Prime Minister Abiy. “This action shows the primary role of conservation and environmental protection in the process of building a sustainable food system that is not for challenge.”
The symbolic planting ceremony, part of Ethiopia’s internationally recognized Green Legacy Initiative, highlights the crucial link between reforestation, climate action, and food security. Launched by Prime Minister Abiy in 2019, the Green Legacy has seen the planting of over 32 billion trees across Ethiopia, reversing deforestation and enhancing agricultural productivity.
The summit, attended by global leaders, policymakers, and development partners, aims to transform food systems in a way that addresses climate change, ends hunger, and promotes resilient agricultural practices.
Prime Minister Abiy emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to leading by example, stating that environmental protection is “not a choice but a necessity” for nations aiming to achieve sustainable development.
He reiterated that food systems cannot be transformed without addressing environmental degradation, and called on the international community to unite around practical, green solutions rooted in both science and traditional ecological wisdom.
The co-hosting of the summit by Ethiopia marks a significant recognition of the country’s proactive policies and home-grown solutions, positioning Ethiopia as a rising voice in global sustainable development and climate resilience efforts.
Background:
The Green Legacy Initiative is one of Africa’s largest reforestation campaigns, aimed at restoring degraded landscapes, combating desertification, and building a climate-resilient economy. Under Prime Minister Abiy’s leadership, it has become a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s national development strategy, gaining praise from international institutions including the UN, FAO, and UNEP.
BY: The Times Union
