Entoto Park to Increase Indigenous Tree Varieties to 10 Under Restoration Plan

July 20, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

Entoto Nature Park plans to expand the number of indigenous tree species planted in its restoration programme from six to 10 as Ethiopia’s Heritage Trust continues efforts to replace eucalyptus trees with native vegetation. The Ethiopian Heritage Trust said it is strengthening a long-term conservation programme at Entoto by removing or neutralising eucalyptus trees, locally known as “bahir zaf”, that were planted in previous years but are considered unsuitable for maintaining the area’s natural ecological balance.

Shimelis Kebede, head of development and conservation at the Ethiopian Heritage Trust and Entoto Nature Park, told Ahadu Radio that the organisation plants between 50,000 and 60,000 indigenous tree seedlings every year in collaboration with partner organisations, development institutions and individuals. The annual planting programme has continued to expand since the launch of Ethiopia’s Green Legacy initiative, with the Trust maintaining the planting of more than 50,000 indigenous seedlings each year.

During this year’s planting season, the park introduced six indigenous species, including Ethiopian kosso, birbira, wanza, korch, olive and cedar trees. The Trust plans to add blackwood, lul and Ethiopian tid to raise the number of indigenous varieties planted annually to 10. The conservation programme also includes measures to protect newly planted seedlings from human and animal interference.

The Trust has assigned more than 40 conservation workers to provide 24-hour protection and maintenance services. The Ethiopian Heritage Trust said the restoration of indigenous trees forms part of its mandate to protect Ethiopia’s cultural, historical and natural heritage. The organisation has managed conservation activities at natural heritage sites for the past 30 years.

Entoto Nature Park, located on the outskirts of Addis Ababa, is one of the capital’s major green areas. The restoration programme aims to improve biodiversity and strengthen the long-term conservation of the park’s ecosystem, contributing to Ethiopia’s broader environmental goals.

Source: FSX Business News