Naomi Akakpo leads Sport4Land reforestation drive 

This article was originally published in French by the UNIC team in Togo

After the tree planting activity, the enthusiastic students, still in their sportswear, line up to race against the athlete. Calm and focused, Naomi starts by teaching them the fundamentals of hurdling. She then gives a demonstration, met with loud applause. Teams are quickly formed, and the races begin. After several attempts, the students, proud of their efforts, begin to dream of one day competing in the Olympics. 

“When I saw Tata Naomi running, I loved it so much. I like working on my body and playing sports. I’ll work harder to reach her level one day,” says 14-year-old Abidé. 

For her part, Kafui understands that even if she doesn't become a top-level athlete, she can still raise awareness in her community about reforestation and the fight against desertification: 

“Seeing her motivates me to become like her. I know it takes a lot of hard work, but even if I dont become a champion, I’ll still inform people around me about the risks we face in the future if we don’t start planting trees now.” 

The aspirations of these young people reaffirm Naomi’s commitment as a Sport4Land champion. For her, the event goes beyond sport.

“Being here today to raise awareness among youth is essential. I I wanted to connect it to my own sport—100m hurdles—to show how athletics, the environment, and nutrition are all interconnected. If we teach them good habits and values from a young age, it can have a positive impact on our future.” 

An innovative partnership for the environment 

The launch of this 2,028-tree forest at Démé High School in Tsévié is part of global celebrations for the Desertification and Drought Day, observed on June 17. This year’s theme is: “Restore the Land. Unlock the Opportunities” The initiative is led in partnership with the NGO APEVIA, supported by the Togolese government and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. 

Up to 40 per cent of land worldwide is already degraded, and the urgency of restoring it is now a global priority. Investing in land restoration can generate up to 30 dollars in benefits for every dollar spent.

Togo is stepping up. The country’s reforestation policy, launched in 2021, aims to plant one billion trees by 2030. It serves as a catalyst for a collective and ambitious response. According to Dr. Amah Atutonu, Director of Forest Resources: 

“This is a wonderful mobilization that brings together various groups and initiatives, all converging on a shared goal: protecting our planet. Linking sport with reforestation is an innovative idea. Athletes, through their discipline, endurance, and team spirit, show they can also be climate actors, working toward a healthier future.” 

Tree planting efforts will continue through the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, in partnership with the NGO APEVIA, whose teams will lead environmental awareness workshops, educational sports sessions, and ensure the ongoing care of the newly planted trees helping young people nurture both the land and their potential. 

About Sport4Land 

Sport4Land is a global campaign by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) to unite the sports community in the fight against land degradation, desertification and drought. With climate change accelerating droughts, heatwaves, and land degradation, the impact is being felt not only on playing fields but also on the food we eat, the livelihoods we depend on, and the environment we share.

Launched at the Paris Olympics 2024, the campaign engages athletes and fans worldwide to take action for land restoration. As Sport4Land champions, high-profile athletes  promote the critical connection between healthy land and thriving communities.

Photo : © UN Togo/Fessal Bako