In Rwanda, a country with a small but densely populated territory, forests are among the most valuable natural resources. They provide clean air, regulate rainwater, prevent soil erosion, supply firewood and construction materials, and serve as habitats for various birds and wildlife.
Today, forest conservation has become one of the most important tools for combating climate change, restoring biodiversity, and protecting human life and agriculture. The Green Amayaga Project, operating in the Southern Province, has been supporting communities in environmental protection by providing tree seedlings, promoting afforestation, and planting trees along roadsides to protect the soil and reduce air pollution.
Fighting soil erosion and climate change
Forests hold the soil together, preventing rainwater from washing it away. The more trees there are, the stronger the soil becomes. They help purify the air we breathe and provide timber once the forests mature, allowing new trees to be planted to sustain the cycle.
Elie Ntabwoba, from Mikamba Village, Mbazi Cell in Mugina Sector, appreciates the support he received from the Green Amayaga Project, which planted a forest on one hectare of his land. He says:
“This project helped me a lot. It prevented my land from becoming barren. The trees provided fodder and fresh air, and the forest is beautiful to look at. It even allowed me to use my land title to get a loan from the bank and obtain the money I needed. You can really see the great value of forests.”
Beneficiaries also point out that once the trees mature, they will be able to harvest timber, firewood, and charcoal, which will provide income. They also expect to obtain poles for supporting crops in their fields.
Trees and porests protect water sources
Trees and forests planted near rivers, wetlands, and valleys help improve water quality and maintain natural water flow. Forests in buffer zones surrounding lakes and streams ensure that the water remains clean and flows without obstruction.
Forests also play a major role in biodiversity conservation. They provide habitats for:Various bird species, beneficial insects,mountain wildlife and other organisms essential for soil health,forests also protect human life by producing clean oxygen while reducing harmful emissions.
The Green Amayaga Project, implemented by Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), has successfully planted forests on 244 hectares, according to the Project Manager, Songa Remy.
Through this initiative, the project restores degraded land, fights soil erosion, and increases the number of trees and forests owned by the local population.
The Green Amayaga Project (Forest Landscape Restoration in Amayaga Region) is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and UNDP, and implemented by REMA as part of national efforts to protect and restore Rwanda’s environment.
Marie Chantal Nyirabera
