A renowned ethnobotanist and author, Professor Daniel Abbiw has placed an urgent call for the official recognition of Odum (Milicia excelsa) as Ghana’s National Plant.
Prof. Abbiw, author of the acclaimed works Useful Plants of Ghana and Traditional and Religious Plants of West Africa, first proposed the recognition in 2015. Despite submitting letters and documentation to three successive governments, the proposal remains unattended.
A Tree That Built Ghana, Known internationally as Iroko, Odum has been central to Ghana’s history and development, used extensively in building rest houses, guest houses, and homes across Ghana. A fire-resistant hardwood of high market value, its export has been banned to protect local use. Supports biodiversity, carbon capture, and soil conservation. reliability, and refuge values at the heart of Ghanaian identity. It Provides remedies widely applied in West African traditional medicine.
“If Britain can recognize the English oak as its national tree for historical reasons, Ghana has even greater cause to elevate Odum a tree that literally built our communities and continues to serve our people,” Prof. Abbiw stated.
National symbols embody a country’s identity and pride. Ghana boasts a national anthem, a national flag, and even a national dance yet it has no official national plant. Prof. Abbiw calls this an oversight that requires urgent correction.
Despite years of advocacy, Prof. Abbiw notes the lack of official response from state authorities, including the Office of the President, the Chief of Staff, Parliament, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Prof. Abbiw is urging the President, Parliament, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to act swiftly.
