Launched in 2007, this ecological initiative is restoring degraded lands, improving food security, and creating thousands of green jobs. The project, spanning 156 million hectares across 11 countries, has made substantial gains in reforestation, community resilience, and environmental sustainability.
Several countries stand out for their remarkable contributions:
Leading the charge is Burkina Faso with nearly 30,000 hectares of land restored, and 45,383 jobs created! Over 16 million plants and seedlings have been cultivated, boosting biodiversity and ensuring household food security. With over 1 million hectares of restored land, Ethiopia is one of the largest contributors to the Wall’s success. Its achievements include the production of 5 billion plants and seeds, 218,405 new jobs, and restored habitats through watershed and forest management. Efforts in Nigeria focus on establishing a 1,359 km shelterbelt to reduce soil erosion and foster ecosystem growth. Key accomplishments include the reforestation of 2,801 hectares, the creation of 1,396 jobs, and the production of 7.6 million plants and seedlings. Senegal has reforested over 72,000 hectares and restored an impressive 850,000 hectares overall. Its work has positively impacted 322,221 residents, creating sustainable livelihoods and a greener landscape. Finally, Sudan has restored 85,000 hectares of land, produced 1.9 million plants and seedlings, and established green jobs to foster food and energy security.
In total, the Great Green Wall has produced millions of plants, reforested vast areas, and generated hundreds of thousands of jobs. This initiative is a groundbreaking model for sustainable development, transforming Africa’s Sahel region into a source of resilience, biodiversity, and economic growth. Such projects are the benchmark for sustainable development and are heavily supported here at the African Green Economy Secretariat!
Tony Elumelu Foundation’s BeGreen Africa Entrepreneurship Program 2025
Freee Recycle Limited, a Nigerian enterprise established in 2018, has emerged as a leading force in urban waste management. The company has transformed over 400,000 discarded tyres into valuable products ranging from construction materials to consumer goods.
