Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS), in collaboration with key stakeholders from the Tema Port community, has launched an impressive tree planting initiative to enhance ecological balance and promote environmental sustainability. This initiative, aligned with the Green Ghana project, aims to create a greener and healthier environment around the port area by planting thousands of trees in strategic locations.

Mr. Frank Ebo Brown, Head of Legal and Compliance at MPS, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “Environmental sustainability is not just a responsibility but a commitment to life. This action we are witnessing here is a collaborative effort among MPS and the Port community to conserve our working environment. The uniqueness of our tree planting exercise is that every employee who plants a tree becomes its caretaker, supported by an effective maintenance program to ensure the trees thrive.”

Madam Felicia Edem Attipoe, the Municipal Chief Executive for Tema West, participated in the tree planting exercise. The Estate and Environment Department of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), represented by Mr. Daniel Asare, also planted trees and expressed their aspirations for Ghana’s environment. “We believe that such efforts by individuals, corporations, groups, and the government will lead to a Ghana where deforestation is reduced, and endangered species multiply once again,” Mr. Asare stated.

Since 2017, MPS has undertaken a significant tree planting initiative within Tema and along Beach Road, near the site of the Tema Port Expansion Project. Speaking at the event, MPS CEO Mohamed Samara highlighted the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The initiative began with the planting of 400 coconut seedlings by employees, which was referred to as “Planting the Way to the New Port Facility,” aiming to enhance environmental sustainability and beautify the area. Additionally, MPS collaborated with pupils from Manhean Primary School in Tema Newtown to plant 200 coconut seedlings on the school compound.

Following MPS’s relocation to the new Terminal 3 in 2019, members of the Sakumono fisherfolk joined the initiative, participating in the planting of 500 new trees along the beach road strip near Sakumono Lake.

This initiative has since evolved into an annual tradition. Led by the MPS CEO and the senior management, along with the GPHA and the Tema District Municipality, MPS has consistently increased its tree planting efforts. The latest effort saw the planting of 1,002 trees from various species. Besides coconut trees, known for their ability to withstand marine conditions and strong winds, the company is also planting tropical forest species like Flamboyant trees, Rainforest trees, Veitchia palms, and umbrella trees to help balance the ecosystem around the Terminal. A significant number of seedlings were provided by the Ghana Forestry Department.

Reflecting on the past beauty of the Sakumono Beach Road, Mr. Samara recalled, “Thirty years ago, the Sakumono Beach Road was a paradise, lined with coconut trees. Although global warming and coastal erosion have tragically eradicated these trees over the past two decades, we are resolute in our mission to restore this heavenly landscape. Our children and future generations deserve to enjoy the natural beauty we once knew.”

MPS has instituted various policies to contribute to the global effort of combating climate change and global warming. The company currently operates a waste segregation policy and engages in significant activities to combat air pollution and conserve energy.

The MPS staff celebrated the occasion, marking a milestone in their ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community beautification.