The Women Poultry and Livestock Association (WOPOLA) has planted over 400 trees in the Yariga community in the Upper East Region as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and rural development.
The tree-planting initiative was done in collaboration with the Forestry Commission of Ghana, reinforcing WOPOLA’s role not only in empowering women and vulnerable groups through agriculture but also in championing green development in the region.
WOPOLA’s broader mission includes promoting guinea fowl farming, enhancing business skills for rural women, and improving livelihoods through poultry and livestock production. This latest exercise marks a strong statement in support of climate-smart agriculture and community-led afforestation efforts.
Women Leading Climate Action
Speaking at the event, WOPOLA President Theresah Benedicta Alegmiah stressed the importance of trees to rural farming systems and called on stakeholders to support women’s participation in sustainable agriculture.
“We know what soybean does for us; we know what trees give us. As part of the government’s tree planting program, WOPOLA is also doing our part to complement this national agenda,” she said.
In addition to planting trees at the Yariga Primary and Junior High School and the Yariga Health Center, WOPOLA also trained local women in soybean cultivation techniques, promoting practical agricultural knowledge alongside environmental action.
Empowering Women Beyond the Kitchen
Diana Asamani, WOPOLA Project Coordinator and leader of the Yariga community women, spoke passionately about the evolving role of women in agriculture and environmental stewardship.
“We want to encourage everyone in Ghana to plant a tree—because a tree is life. Gone are the days when women were told their place was only in the kitchen. Today, as you can see, we are out under the sun, planting trees for the future. Let’s move forward and break those limitations,” she said.
Community Welcomes the Initiative
Leaders and institutions within the Yariga community have welcomed the initiative with excitement and gratitude. Fredrick Appiah, a teacher at the Yariga M/A Junior High School, speaking on behalf of the headteacher, pledged that the school, in collaboration with the community, would ensure the survival of all the trees planted.
“This is a great initiative. We are committed to nurturing the trees and making sure they thrive. We appreciate WOPOLA’s vision and practical support,” he said.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|David Azure|Bolgatanga
