President of the Republic Head of State Army General Abdourahamane Tiani presided over the official tree planting ceremony for 2026 on Monday, August 3, 2026. The significant event took place in Chadakori, located within the Kouroungousaou classified forest in the Guidan Roumdji Department of Maradi. This location was specifically chosen for its ecological importance and potential for large-scale reforestation. General Tiani commenced the ceremony by planting his tree, symbolically launching the national reforestation campaign. The presence of Ministers responsible for Environment from neighboring Burkina Faso and Mali showed the regional importance and collaborative spirit of the initiative.
Theme and Goals
The theme for this year's 3rd edition of the National Tree Day was 'La restauration des bases productives, pilier de la Refondation' (The restoration of productive bases, pillar of the Refoundation). This theme emphasizes the critical role of environmental restoration in supporting the nation's foundational development goals. A total of 15,650 tree species are scheduled for planting across the country during this year's campaign, demonstrating a significant commitment to greening efforts. The specific site in Chadakori, within the Kouroungousaou classified forest, spans an impressive 50 hectares and has been meticulously developed and fenced in preparation for the extensive reforestation efforts. This preparatory work ensures the protection and successful establishment of the newly planted trees. The néré tree was chosen as the 'tree of the year' for its ecological benefits and economic value to local communities. Among the distinguished attendees at the ceremony were members of the Conseil National pour la Sauvegarde de la Patrie (CNSP), various government officials, representatives from the consultative council and different national institutions, as well as administrative and customary officials from the region, all gathered to support this vital environmental endeavor.
Desertification Control Prizes
President Abdourahamane Tiani took the opportunity during the National Tree Day ceremony to award prestigious prizes for the fight against desertification, recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to environmental protection. Mme Atta Rabo Dadoria of Matankari received the first prize, which included a substantial sum of three million CFA francs, acknowledging her exemplary efforts. Sidi Ousmane, from Sahar Peulh village, was awarded the second prize, valued at two million CFA francs, for his dedicated work. Alhadji Laouali Chaibou of Sabon Machi secured the third prize, consisting of 1.5 million CFA francs, noting his commitment to combating land degradation. Additionally, President Tiani personally decorated several individuals for their significant contributions to promoting environmental protection across the country. Silver and bronze medals of honor were presented to these deserving personalities in recognition of their invaluable efforts and unwavering dedication to safeguarding the environment.
Past Successes and Future Vision
This year's event marked the 3rd edition of the National Tree Day, building on previous successful campaigns. During the proceedings, officials announced a significant decision: the reforestation site in Maradi will be named after Sultan BABARI of Gobir, honoring a historical figure and ensuring a lasting legacy for the environmental initiative. A compelling documentary film was screened during the ceremony, showcasing the successful community wood initiatives from the previous edition of the National Tree Day. That prior event was held in August 2025 in Zinder, on the 'Amadou Dan Bassa' site. The documentary noted the active participation of local communities in the planting and care of trees. Official statistics provided during the event revealed an impressive success rate for the plantations established during the 2nd edition in Zinder, recording a remarkable 96% survival rate. This high survival rate serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the strategies employed and offers a promising outlook for the current and future reforestation efforts across the nation.