UNECA Chief Hails Ethiopia’s Reforestation Success and Green Energy Leadership Ahead of COP32

Claver Gatete lauds Ethiopia's 48 billion tree reforestation milestone and 95% renewable energy use at the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 28, 2026, 10:33 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from ENA English

Ethiopia Positioned as Continental Model for Sustainability

The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Claver Gatete, has formally commended the Ethiopian government for its proactive leadership in climate action. Speaking at the Twelfth Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development 2026, Gatete characterized the country’s environmental initiatives as bold and exemplary. The forum, held in Addis Ababa, focused on transformative actions needed to meet the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, with Ethiopia’s domestic policies serving as a primary case study for success.

Reforestation Milestones and Renewable Energy Dominance

A central component of Ethiopia’s climate strategy is the Green Legacy Initiative, which Gatete described as one of the most significant reforestation programs globally. The initiative has resulted in the planting of more than 48 billion tree seedlings across the country. Furthermore, Gatete noted with specific emphasis that Ethiopia currently generates over 95 percent of its electricity from renewable energy sources. This achievement is viewed as a landmark accomplishment, particularly as other global regions continue to struggle with energy transitions and volatile fossil fuel markets.

Preparations Underway for Global Climate Summit Hosting

With Ethiopia slated to host the COP32 summit in 2027, the UNECA chief described the upcoming event as a critical moment for international multilateral cooperation. Gatete asserted that the country is uniquely equipped to manage the summit due to its proven track record in integrating sustainable development with national policy. The UNECA is currently collaborating with the Ethiopian government and the broader United Nations system to ensure that COP32 delivers high impact results that bridge the gap between abstract climate goals and tangible development outcomes.