The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 joined the United Nations in commemorating 80 years of global service through a symbolic tree planting ceremony held under the theme “UN@80: Rooted in Partnership, Growing for the Future.” 
The event formed part of the “Eight Trees for Eight Decades” initiative, which saw eight strategic Ghanaian institutions selected to represent key pillars of the UN’s partnership with Ghana. 
The eight participating institutions selected were Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Peace Council, GIMPA, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Defence, Parliament House, National Development Planning Commission, and Ghana Journalists Association.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Director-General, Mr. Richard Tweneboah-Kodua, Director of Research at NDPC, described the initiative as “a living tribute to the values we share with the United Nations: sustainability, inclusion, resilience, and progress.” He emphasised that the tree planted on NDPC’s grounds symbolized not only the Commission’s thematic pillar but also its enduring commitment to nurturing the roots of development for future generations. “We reaffirm our commitment to advancing the goals of the United Nations in Ghana,” he stated, citing multilateral cooperation, democratic governance, peacebuilding, education, and environmental stewardship.
Speaking on behalf of the UN Country Team, UN Country Director Zia Choudhury described the tree planting as a symbolic act that nurtures “the enduring seeds of hope and partnership” between the United Nations and the Government and people of Ghana. 
He highlighted the values that have guided the UN for eight decades—peace, development, human rights, and solidarity, and reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to environmental stewardship and climate action. “The roots we plant today will grow into legacies tomorrow,” he said.
Mr. Choudhury also acknowledged the strategic selection of eight institutions representing key areas of UN support, including NDPC’s leadership in shaping Ghana’s development vision. 
He extended appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Forestry Commission, and all participating institutions for their support.