In Rulindo District, the tree and forest planting season was launched on more than 2,000 hectares during a monthly community work event (Umuganda) held on October 28, 2023, in Burega sector. Through collaboration with ARCOS Network, which works on environmental protection, 8,000 trees of 23 species were planted on 20 hectares. The focus was mainly on restoring native trees, with 11 native species being planted, which include edible trees aimed at combating malnutrition and child stunting. The local population was encouraged to protect the trees.
In a speech after the Umuganda, the district mayor, Judith Mukanyirigira, reminded the residents of the importance of trees and urged them to protect those already planted and to plant even more, including fruit trees that would yield a harvest. She said: “You see various types of trees being planted. Your role is to protect them, make use of them, and understand their benefits, which include preventing soil erosion, purifying the air, and providing medicinal fruits to help fight malnutrition.”
She also expressed her gratitude to ARCOS Network for their continued partnership with the district in environmental protection and asked the community to care for the trees and be proactive in tree planting, as they will not always rely on external support.
Residents of Burega sector were pleased with the tree seedlings provided and committed to making the most of them. Jean Paul Kubwimana, the coordinator of ARCOS Network, which works to protect the environment and promote community development, said that they consider the international tree planting day as a significant occasion. He said, “We value this day as a time to join Rwandans and the world in addressing climate change, as we are aware of its consequences, including soil erosion, extreme heat that affects crops, and diseases caused by polluted air. To mitigate these effects, ARCOS plants trees in collaboration with the district, local authorities, and residents, ensuring that each individual plants their own trees.”
He emphasized that ARCOS focuses on native trees, which are crucial for the Rwandan ecosystem. He added, “As you can see, the residents were involved in planting the trees, and we encourage them to continue protecting them to reap the expected benefits. We especially focus on native trees, and of the 23 species planted, 11 are native, aimed at preserving Rwandan culture.”
Jean Damascene Nkunzimana, a resident of Burega, said that although he had been practicing farming, ARCOS helped him understand the value of tree farming. ARCOS plans to plant over 2 million trees on 2,560 hectares in Rulindo district. He said, “I am a farmer, but before, I didn’t know the value of tree farming. ARCOS explained its importance and helped us plant trees, providing us with seedlings and training us on how to care for them. Now I have realized the benefits, as I planted avocados that I bought for 20 francs, and now I sell them for 200 francs. I am grateful to ARCOS, which has opened our eyes and helped us improve our lives while protecting the environment.”
Solange Mukamuhoza, another resident, said, “I love trees, and it would hurt me to see someone destroying one. Those who don’t know the value of trees should approach ARCOS for training to help them develop. ARCOS not only provides us with trees but also livestock, which helps us fertilize our crops and get a good harvest. They have been providing trees for many years, and the ones we planted earlier have grown and are now bearing fruit.”
Residents of Burega were reminded of the value of trees. The trees were planted on their farms to help prevent soil erosion and could also be used to feed livestock or provide firewood. Traditional trees were also planted, which can be used for medicine, and the trees, in general, will help purify the air, attract rain, and preserve biodiversity.
The theme for the 2023–2024 tree planting season is: “Caring for forests to create a better world.” It is planned that during this season, in collaboration with ARCOS Network, more than 2 million trees will be planted on 2,560 hectares in Rulindo district. ARCOS Network is an organization dedicated to environmental protection and community development, operating in various African countries, with its headquarters in Kigali, Rwanda. They are active in six districts in Rwanda.
Writer: Seif Gracien Hasingizwimana
