Alemnesh Worku

A visionary environmental activist leading large-scale reforestation efforts in Ethiopia to combat desertification

Early Life and Inspiration

Alemnesh Worku (born 1989 in Addis Ababa) grew up witnessing Ethiopia's ecological challenges firsthand. Her childhood experiences in the drought-prone regions of the Afar Depression inspired her lifelong commitment to environmental restoration. After earning a forestry degree from Haramaya University in 2015, she returned to her hometown to implement sustainable land management practices.

Green Legacy Initiative

In 2020, Worku launched the Green Legacy Ethiopia initiative, organizing over 23 million tree plantings in a single day - a world record recognized by Guinness World Records. This effort marked the beginning of a national movement against desertification, reversing decades of deforestation and soil erosion. The project has expanded to create 50,000+ green jobs, primarily employing women and youth.

Innovative Approaches

Worku pioneered the use of drone-assisted reforestation in arid regions, combining traditional knowledge with modern technology. Her team developed drought-resistant seed varieties through partnerships with institutions like the World Agroforestry Centre. The initiative's Climate Smart Agriculture programs now operate in 13 regions, integrating tree planting with sustainable farming techniques.

Global Recognition

In 2022, Worku was awarded the UN Young Environmental Champion Award. Her work has inspired similar initiatives across East Africa, with Kenya and Somalia adopting Ethiopia's reforestation models. A documentary series about her efforts, Seeds of Resilience, premiered on BBC Earth in 2023.