Airtel Rwanda on Friday joined government’s efforts geared at ensuring environmental sustainability by planting over 1,800 trees in Gikomero, Gasabo District.

The exercise under theme, "I am green” is part of Airtel’s ‘going green’ initiative to contribute to the protection and conservation of the environment. Ensuring environmental sustainability is the seventh Millennium Development Goal.

The tree planting exercise took place on the shorelines of Lake Muhazi, where Airtel staff planted Grevillea trees that are known to prevent soil erosion, improve soil fertility and provide shade tree in coffee and tea plantations. Teddy Bhullar, the Airtel Rwanda managing director, said the initiative also aimed at supporting communities, noting that the firm is determined to integrate the principles of sustainable development into their practices of doing business.

Also speaking after the event, Jonas Shema, the executive secretary of Gikomero sector, applauded Airtel for supporting their efforts, adding that the sector plans to plant at least 150,000 trees. "We have so far planted the 11,000 mark. With Airtel’s support, we are a step closer to reaching our target and contributing to a greener Rwanda for future generations,” Shema said.

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