By Sallieu S. Kanu
The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone has partnered with the Media Initiatives for Climate Change and the Environment (MICCE) to launch a tree‑planting campaign across 12 public schools in Freetown.
The initiative, which began on July 6, 2026, involves planting 25 trees in each school. Dubbed the “China–Sierra Leone Friendship Trees,” the project symbolizes the enduring ties between the two nations while promoting environmental conservation among young people.
MICCE Director Martha Kargbo praised the Embassy for fully sponsoring the campaign, noting its aim to strengthen climate change awareness and instill a culture of environmental stewardship among pupils. “We want young people to take an active interest in climate change and environmental protection, as they are the generation that will inherit and safeguard our environment,” she said.
During the first week, tree‑planting activities were carried out at Milton Margai School for the Blind, Murray Town Municipal School, Aberdeen Municipal School, Government Secondary School Kingtom, Bishop Johnson Memorial School, and Government Secondary School Kissy Dock. Pupils participated actively and received messages on the importance of protecting the environment.
The campaign features both cash and non‑cash crop species, contributing to greener and healthier school environments. MICCE expects the program to continue in the remaining schools, further advancing climate action and sustainability among schoolchildren across Freetown.