The project, which was launched on September 18, 2026, aims to promote sustainable agriculture and improve the livelihoods of local residents. The initiative will focus on planting fruit trees and other species that can help to prevent soil erosion and increase crop yields. The project will be implemented in the Rusizi district's Cyogogo sector, where soil erosion and malnutrition are significant concerns.
Local residents have expressed their enthusiasm for the project, citing the benefits of increased access to fruit and improved soil health. Mutoniwase Velonise, a resident of Rusambu village, said that the project would help to address malnutrition and improve the overall well-being of her community. She noted that the trees would provide shade, improve soil quality, and increase the availability of nutritious food.
Harerimana Lambert, another local resident, highlighted the challenges of accessing affordable fruit in the area. He said that the project would help to address this issue and provide a sustainable solution to the community's nutritional needs. Lambert emphasized the importance of taking care of the trees and ensuring their long-term survival.
The project is expected to benefit 2,490 farmers in the Cyogogo sector, who will receive training and support to plant and maintain the trees. The initiative is being implemented by the Association for the Promotion of Environment and Sustainable Agriculture (APEFA), in partnership with local authorities. APEFA's director, Habanabakize Protais, emphasized the importance of protecting the environment and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
The Rusizi district authorities have expressed their commitment to supporting the project and ensuring its success. The district's deputy mayor urged local residents to take ownership of the project and ensure the long-term care and maintenance of the trees. The authorities hope that the project will help to establish the district as a major producer of fruit and improve the overall livelihoods of local residents.
The project will create employment opportunities for local residents, including 249 women and youth. The initiative will also provide training and capacity-building programs to help farmers adopt sustainable agriculture practices and improve their productivity. The project's success is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and improve the overall well-being of the community.
The tree planting project is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable development and address the challenges of climate change in Rwanda. The initiative is expected to contribute to the country's goals of reducing malnutrition, improving soil health, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Key points: The project will plant 274,320 trees over five years, The initiative aims to combat malnutrition, soil erosion, and climate change, Local residents will benefit from increased access to fruit and improved soil health.
