On October 29, 2026, Dr. Solange Uwituze, the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, visited Nyagatare district to launch a tree-planting campaign in schools. The initiative aims to mark the International Food Day, which will be celebrated on October 30, 2026, in Gatsibo district. During the event, Dr. Uwituze emphasized the importance of tree planting and protection.
Dr. Uwituze encouraged students to take care of the trees planted in their schools and to promote a culture of tree planting among their families. She highlighted the benefits of trees, particularly fruit trees, in maintaining a healthy climate and improving nutrition. The minister also urged students to help increase the number of trees planted in their communities.
The tree-planting campaign aims to plant 10,000 trees in 25 schools within three days. Students from Nyarupfubire school, where the campaign was launched, expressed their enthusiasm for the initiative and pledged to take care of the trees. Kirabo Justine, a fourth-year student, said that the initiative will help showcase the school's beauty and provide nutritious food.
Mugabo Héritier, another student, echoed Kirabo's sentiments, saying that he is committed to taking care of the trees and promoting tree planting in his community. He noted that the trees will provide fruit and contribute to the local economy. The students' enthusiasm was palpable as they began to plant fruit trees in their school.
Mohamed Aw Dahir, the head of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rwanda, expressed his organization's commitment to supporting initiatives like tree planting. He emphasized the importance of monitoring the trees' growth and ensuring that the efforts are not in vain. Dahir also praised the involvement of students in the initiative, saying that it is essential to instill a love for tree planting in young people.
The tree-planting campaign will continue in the remaining 24 schools in Nyagatare district. In addition to planting fruit trees, the district has launched a program to plant fodder for livestock, aiming to increase milk production. The initiatives are part of a broader effort to promote sustainable agriculture and improve the livelihoods of communities in Rwanda.
The campaign's success will be measured by the number of trees that survive and thrive. Dr. Uwituze and other stakeholders will monitor the progress and provide support as needed. The students' involvement in the initiative is seen as a positive step towards creating a culture of environmental stewardship in Rwanda.
Key points
- Dr. Solange Uwituze urges students to protect trees planted in schools.
- The tree-planting campaign aims to plant 10,000 trees in 25 schools.
- The initiative promotes sustainable agriculture and improves nutrition in Rwanda.
