Ganzourgou: The 7th edition of National Tree Day was marked by the planting of 1,000 medicinal tree seedlings in the Wayen classified forest in Ganzourgou province. The event, held in the village of Kougri within the commune of Zam, covered an area of 2 hectares and drew the participation of administrative and customary authorities alongside numerous guests.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony was themed "Medicinal plants: a source of health and climate resilience for communities," and was under the patronage of Sy Assita Barry, Governor of the Oubri region. The event was presided over by Ms. Aminata Sorgho/Gouba, High Commissioner of Ganzourgou, with sponsorship from economic operator Cl©ment Kabor©.
In her address, the High Commissioner commended the efforts of local groups, including the VDP, the Koglw©ogo groups, and the "Wayignans," for their dedication to restoring the forest's vegetation. She highlighted the importance of protecting the Wayen classified forest, a 12,000-hectare area safeguarded since 1941 but currently at risk from practices like excessive logging and gold panning.
The High Commissioner emphasized the urgent need for action and noted that the planted trees possess therapeutic properties beneficial for treating conditions like diabetes and urinary tract infections. Sayouba Sigu©, the provincial director of water and forests in Ganzourgou, praised the initiative, stressing its potential to improve the climate and environment of Kougri. He urged the community to maintain the plants and mentioned the formation of a committee for this purpose.
The reforestation aligns with the "patriotic hour to regreen Faso," a national initiative that has resulted in the planting of over a million seedlings in Ganzourgou, placing it at the forefront nationally. The event also included the distribution of eco-friendly bags to the women of Kougri as part of efforts to reduce plastic bag usage. Local leaders, including the village chief and traditional practitioners, supported the initiative, advocating for sustainable forest management.