Through the Green Amayaga Project, riverbanks have been effectively protected by planting bamboo on Buffer zone, a species well known for its strong roots that bind the soil and prevent erosion. In Ruhango District, along the Ururumanza River, extensive bamboo plantations have been established as part of this environmental conservation initiative.
Niyibishaka Jean Baptiste, a resident of Buremera Village in Mbuye Sector, explained the change brought by the project
“Before these trees were planted, the Ururumanza River used to overflow and cause serious damage. Farming along the riverbanks led to severe soil erosion. Today, the soil is protected, erosion has stopped and the land is no longer washed away.”
Niyonagira Bernadette, from Buremera Village, Mbuye Cell, Mbuye Sector in Ruhango District (Southern Province) also expressed her gratitude to Green Amayaga. She noted that the project has not only reduced erosion but has also encouraged wildlife to return and settle among the bamboo.
“Before Green Amayaga arrived, this area was almost like a desert no trees, no shade, no wind, and very little rainfall. Today, trees and bamboo are everywhere. They have strengthened the soil, which no longer erodes. Wildlife has returned and signs of animals and insects can now be seen again as part of the restored biodiversity.”
Community members also highlighted social benefits. They explained that children sometimes used to damage young trees on their way home from school, but awareness has increased and the community now understands the importance of protecting the planted trees. Residents believe Green Amayaga arrived at the right time and continue to pray for blessings upon the project.
According to Remy Songa, the Project Manager of Green AMAYAGA, the initiative focuses on planting bamboo along riverbanks and wetlands to protect buffer zones.
A buffer zone is a legally protected strip of land along rivers and wetlands designed to safeguard water resources and surrounding ecosystems.
Under the Green Amayaga program, bamboo has been planted within a 10 meter buffer zone along rivers, covering a total of 47.5 hectares to buffer zonne. Bamboo plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil, allowing water to flow naturally without causing erosion or floods. Its deep and extensive root system firmly holds the soil, while grasses and other plant species gradually regenerate around riverbanks.
These efforts contribute significantly to the restoration of ecosystems, helping grasses, insects, animals and other living organisms return, thereby rebuilding a healthy and balanced biodiversity.
Marie Chantal Nyirabera
