By Murtala Issah
Team Europe has embarked on an 800-kilometre bicycle journey from Tamale to Accra in a bold move to raise awareness about climate change and environmental sustainability, with the EU Ambassador revealing that the initiative underscores the bloc’s commitment to Ghana beyond trade.
The initiative, led by EU Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnebach, also commemorates fifty years of diplomatic relations between the European Union and Ghana.
Earlier on Saturday, Ambassador Skinnebach led members of Team Europe, alongside the Northern Regional Minister, the Mayor of Tamale, and the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Sagnarigu Municipal Assembly, to plant trees at the Tamale forest. The exercise supports ongoing efforts to preserve the forest reserve, which has faced significant environmental threats in recent years.
Throughout the journey, the team will plant approximately one thousand trees along the route, leaving a green legacy that underscores their commitment to environmental restoration.
In an interview with GBC News, Ambassador Skinnebach explained the broader significance of the golden jubilee initiatives.
“The EU is not only Ghana’s biggest trading partner, but the EU also cares about the nation’s environment,” the Ambassador said.
In a related development, Ambassador Skinnebach signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sagnarigu Municipal Assembly and the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly. The agreement aims to promote unity, peace, and development between the sister cities, strengthening local governance and cross-municipal cooperation.
The Northern Regional Minister, Adolf Ali John, who joined the tree planting exercise and the bicycle ride, commended the European Union for their support in the region over the years.
“I will support the effort to ensure the survival of the seedlings in the Northern Region,” the Minister stated.
The cycling team is expected to arrive in Accra after covering the 800-kilometre distance in seven days, with stops planned for tree planting and community engagement on climate action.
