Rwanda's new project to drive agroforestry, sustainable agriculture launched
Rwanda Tuesday launched a project aiming to boost agroforestry and sustainable agriculture in southern and parts of northern Rwanda, in its latest effort to drive green growth and climate resilience.
Launched by Rwanda's Forestry Authority and the ministry of Environment, the project seeks to promote green growth in the Northern Province's Gakenke District and seven districts in Southern Province over a five-year period.
“Today, we stand at the threshold of a transformative era. This project is not just an initiative, it is our commitment to safeguarding our forests and nurturing sustainable livelihoods for our people,” Concorde Nsengumuremyi, director general of the Rwanda Forestry Authority said during the launch event in Huye District, southern Rwanda.
“Let us embrace this opportunity with unwavering optimism and a united purpose. Together, we will transform landscapes, uplift communities, and forge a legacy of forest stewardship for generations to come,” he said.
In a statement, the Rwanda Forestry Authority said the project intends to empower 250,000 Rwandans, provide training in agroforestry processes, value chain development, and product transformation.
Over nine million agroforestry and fruit trees are planned to be planted on 80,200 hectares of degraded lands, benefiting community groups and the private sector, according to the forest authority.
It added that the project is expected to tackle multiple challenges including restoring and stabilizing landscapes, improving rural community livelihoods through sustainable agroforestry value chains, and bolstering institutional and community resilience.
