African policymakers, experts, and young people want to stop deforestation in trade. This call was made during a national policy meeting in Ethiopia. The meeting focused on making trade in Ethiopia better for forests. It also aimed to create jobs for young people. This is linked to new rules from the European Union.
The African Forest Forum (AFF), AGRA, and Ethiopian Forest Development (EFD) organised the event. They want Ethiopia to lead in sustainable trade. This initiative is also happening in Kenya and Ghana. The project title is “Scaling Youth-Led Climate Innovations for a Greener Africa”. It aims to help African countries build strong trade systems. It also seeks to create economic chances for young people.
Professor Labode Popoola leads AFF. He said trade in forest goods can connect nations. It can also drive economic growth in Africa. The African Continental Free Trade Area is important. The EU Deforestation Regulation also offers chances. These can boost trade within Africa. They can make Africa more competitive globally.
Dr. Maru Bekele from AGRA spoke about the changes needed. He said moving to deforestation-free supply chains is more than meeting rules. It is about making systems stronger. He stressed putting young people first. Forest-dependent communities are also key. Access to money, skills, and markets can help innovation. It can drive sustainable growth.
Ato Kebede Yimam, head of EFD, said the meeting is timely. Countries face climate change and environmental damage. Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative is a good start. It links forest recovery with economic growth. Forests should be central to a strong economy. They must support a low-carbon future.
Dr. Tefera Belay, AFF Project Manager, said discussions will help Ethiopia. They will create a plan to meet EU rules. This plan focuses on traceable supply chains. These chains must be sustainable. Participants discussed forestry and land restoration. Coffee, renewable energy, and youth businesses were also covered. Responsible land use was a key topic.
The meeting produced draft policy ideas. These aim to improve deforestation-free trade. They also want better teamwork. This includes governments, communities, and businesses. Development partners will also work together. Commitments were renewed to help youth and women. Innovators are seen as drivers of green economies. This meeting is a step toward better trade systems.
These systems must protect forests. They must also create jobs. They should offer economic chances. Matching national plans with global standards helps. Ethiopia can then compete better. It can join new green markets. This promotes responsible development. This effort involves countries like Ghana too.