By Njoh Linda
An environmental advocacy group, 3650 Plastics at 10, has launched a nationwide tree-planting campaign aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems and promoting climate justice in Cameroon.
The initiative seeks to plant 15,000 indigenous trees between March and December 2026 in commemoration of 15 years of priesthood and community service by Father Innocent Wefon Akum.
According to the organizers, the campaign is designed to address growing environmental issues such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change, which continue to affect vulnerable communities in the country.
“This is more than an environmental project. It is a commitment to our children and future generations,” the organization said in a statement. “Every tree planted represents a promise to protect our land and our people.”
The project aims to mobilize communities, faith groups, and young activists to participate in large-scale reforestation. More than 4,800 trees have already been sponsored and are being prepared for planting.
The campaign offers five sponsorship categories, ranging from $10 for individual sponsors to $1,000 and above for legacy supporters. Organizers say the system is designed to allow participation regardless of financial capacity.
Participants will receive personalized certificates, while progress will be monitored through real-time tracking and public impact reports.
Environmental and Social Impact
Organizers say the project will contribute to improving air quality, restoring biodiversity, strengthening food security through fruit-bearing trees, and creating local economic opportunities.
They also stress that environmental degradation disproportionately affects poor and rural communities, making reforestation a matter of social and environmental justice.
Father Innocent, whose work combines spiritual leadership with community development, has emphasized that protecting nature is part of serving humanity.
“Faith and environmental responsibility cannot be separated,” the campaign team noted.
Official Launch
The campaign will begin with a community planting event in March 2026, bringing together schools, local organizations, and religious institutions. Activities will include tree planting, environmental education workshops, and cultural celebrations.
Organizers say these events are intended to promote long-term community ownership of the planted trees.
The organization says additional resources are needed to purchase more seedlings, expand outreach, and sustain other small-scale environmental projects.
“We are calling on Cameroonians at home and abroad to join this movement,” the group said. “Together, we can restore our forests and secure a healthier future.”
As Cameroon faces increasing pressure from climate change and deforestation, the “15 Years. 15,000 Trees” campaign represents a growing grassroots effort to combine community action, faith, and environmental protection in the fight for sustainability.