Administrator calls on religious institutions to back up forestation program

The Administrator of Central region, Mr. Kahsai Gebrehiwet, stressed the need for enhanced role and contribution on the part of religious institutions for the success of the to promote  forestation.

Asmara, 18 February 2011 – The Administrator of Central region, Mr. Kahsai Gebrehiwet, stressed the need for enhanced role and contribution on the part of religious institutions for the success of the to promote  forestation. 

In a meeting with representatives of religious leaders from 83 villages in the region, he stated that the regional Administration is working relentlessly to reinforce soil and water conservation activities in a bid to prevent the negative effects of climatic change resulting from deforestation.

Outlining the damage being sustained in soil and water resources as a result of deforestation, Mr. Kahsai called on religious leaders to map out plans in undertaking forestation in a specific site, beyond planting trees within the premises of churches and mosques.

The Administrator further noted that over 4.5 million tree seedlings have been prepared for the success of the forestation program at the regional level. There are also plans to plant about 3 million cactus seedlings in the eastern escarpment and other places, he added.