The government is aiming to plant two million trees before the end of the year as part of its ambitious Five Million Tree Plantation Programme, Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim has revealed.
Minister Thoriq made these remarks during the fourth forum of the 'Ahaa' series, through which the government provides direct answers to citizens' questions which was held on Saturday evening.
Speaking during the forum, the Minister said the tree plantation programme highlights the Administration's commitment to combating climate change and enhancing biodiversity.
He said the government is aiming to plant two million trees before the end of the current year.
To make this initiative more sustainable, Minister Thoriq revealed plans to design a special mobile application for the Five Million Trees Programme.
Through this application, one will know where a particular tree was planted and by whom, he added.
"We are looking to plant more than one million trees this year. But our target is to plant two million trees this year. By the end of five years, we shall plant five million trees, Minister Thoriq said.
The programme, launched by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, aims to combat climate change, enhance biodiversity, and protect endangered native tree species. It was officially inaugurated on 5 June 2024, coinciding with World Environment Day, marking a significant step towards environmental conservation.
The initiative focuses on planting native tree varieties that are at risk of extinction. These include fruit trees, shade trees, flowering trees, and trees used in traditional Dhivehi medicine. Over a span of five years, the programme aims to plant a total of 90 varieties of fruit-bearing and vegetable-producing plants, significantly contributing to the country's ecological and food security.