The President of the Republic of Chad and Head of State, Marshal Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, officially launched National Tree Week on Monday, July 20, 2026, during a ceremony held at the Toumaï Palace. Through this highly symbolic gesture, the Head of State reaffirmed the Chadian government’s commitment to environmental protection and the fight against the effects of climate change.
To mark the opening of the event, President Déby Itno planted an orange tree sapling, a fruit-bearing species known for its dense foliage, nutritional value, and significant contribution to environmental conservation. The choice of this tree reflects the government’s desire to promote species that combine ecological benefits with economic opportunities for local communities.
Addressing the nation, Marshal Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno called on all Chadians to plant trees on a large scale and, above all, to ensure their proper care and maintenance. He stressed that the success of reforestation campaigns depends not only on planting trees but also on preserving and nurturing them as they grow.
At a time when the Sahel region is facing increasing desertification and the growing impacts of climate change, this initiative forms part of Chad’s broader strategy to restore forest cover, protect natural resources, and strengthen the resilience of communities to environmental challenges.
National Tree Week therefore represents both a nationwide awareness campaign and a collective call to action. It encourages public institutions, local authorities, schools, civil society organizations, and citizens to actively participate in reforestation efforts across the country.
Through this initiative, the Chadian authorities reaffirm their ambition to make environmental protection a shared national responsibility while preserving a healthier and more sustainable natural heritage for future generations.
