Ethnobotanist Prof. Daniel Abbiw Calls for Odum to Be Declared Ghana’s National Plant
Renowned ethnobotanist Prof. Daniel Abbiw urges government to officially recognize Odum (Milicia excelsa) as Ghana’s National Plant, citing its historical, cultural, and ecological significance.
Evans Kweku Oboafi Junior HARDROCK 
Accra, Ghana – Professor Daniel Abbiw, a distinguished ethnobotanist and author of Useful Plants of Ghana and Traditional and Religious Plants of West Africa, has renewed his call for Odum (Milicia excelsa) to be officially recognized as Ghana’s National Plant.
Prof. Abbiw first proposed the recognition in 2015, submitting formal letters and documentation to three successive governments. However, he says the proposal has yet to receive any official action or acknowledgment.
A Tree That Built Ghana
Known internationally as Iroko, Odum has been a cornerstone of Ghana’s history and development:
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Construction Heritage: Extensively used in building rest houses, guest houses, and homes across Ghana.
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Economic Value: A fire-resistant hardwood of high market value, protected by an export ban to ensure local availability.
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Environmental Role: Supports biodiversity, improves soil conservation, and aids carbon capture.
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Medicinal Importance: 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 said.
Call for National Recognition
Prof. Abbiw emphasized that national symbols define a country’s identity and pride, noting that Ghana already has a national anthem, flag, and even a national dance — yet no officially designated national plant. He described this as a critical oversight requiring urgent correction.
Despite years of advocacy, Prof. Abbiw lamented the lack of response from state authorities, including the Office of the President, the Chief of Staff, Parliament, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Appeal to Authorities
He is calling on the President, Parliament, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to move quickly to recognize Odum as Ghana’s national plant, saying it would be a step toward honoring Ghana’s natural heritage and instilling pride in future generations.
