Rwanda to Plant 140,000 Trees to Protect Rusizi River Ecosystem

The YALTA Initiative, a project aimed at promoting agroecology and sustainable business practices, has launched a tree-planting campaign in the Mururu Sector of Rusizi District, western Rwanda. The initiative plans to plant 140,000 trees on 400 hectares to combat soil erosion, restore biodiversity, and protect the Rusizi River ecosystem. The project, which will run for six years, aims to promote sustainable agriculture and improve the livelihoods of local communities.

The project kicked off on November 10, 2026, in the Karambi Sector of Mururu, with 4,700 trees planted on 10 hectares. In 2026, 98,000 trees will be planted on 240 hectares, while the remaining 42,000 will be planted in 2027. The trees include fruit species such as avocado and mango, as well as timber and fuelwood species. The project also includes training for 170 farmers on agroforestry practices to enhance crop yields and protect the soil.

Local residents have welcomed the initiative, citing the devastating effects of soil erosion and landslides on their farms and livelihoods. Uwamariya Francine, a resident of Karambi, noted that the trees will not only provide environmental benefits but also improve their livelihoods. "The trees we plant today will be our lives tomorrow," she said. "We will make sure to take care of them."

The project's coordinator, Kwizera Ngamije Emmanuel, said that 95% of the trees to be planted are fruit and fuelwood species. He emphasized the importance of monitoring and maintaining the trees to ensure their survival. "We will make sure to take care of the trees and replace any that die," he said. The project is expected to create jobs for 147 people and engage 245 volunteers.

The initiative is supported by TerraFund and will be implemented in the Mururu Sector until March 2032. The Rusizi District authorities have welcomed the project, saying it will help achieve the district's goal of becoming a hub for fruit production and contribute to the fight against malnutrition and poverty.

The project is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation in Rwanda. According to the district authorities, the project will help restore degraded lands, protect water sources, and promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

The YALTA Initiative is a six-year project that aims to promote agroecology and sustainable business practices among young people in Africa. The project provides training and support for young entrepreneurs to develop sustainable agricultural businesses that promote environmental conservation and improve livelihoods.

Key points

• The project aims to plant 140,000 trees on 400 hectares to protect the Rusizi River ecosystem and promote sustainable agriculture.
• The initiative will train 170 farmers on agroforestry practices to enhance crop yields and protect the soil.
• The project is expected to create jobs for 147 people and engage 245 volunteers.