For decades, I&M Bank has been a stalwart advocate for human rights efforts, incorporating them into their yearly Corporate Social Responsibility programme. This initiative provides backing for a wide array of projects and undertakings spanning various fields, such as education, healthcare, child welfare, and, most recently, environmental causes such as the Umuganda tree-planting event on October 21 to commemorate this year’s United Nations Day.

The occasion, hosted in Bugesera District at the Mbyo Reconciliation Village, presented an opportunity for the bank to contribute to a multifaceted and profound endeavour, emphasised Hans Mugazi, the head of corporate and institutional banking at I&M Plc.

On that Saturday morning, there was a collaboration among the UN delegation in Rwanda, members of the Prison Fellowship organisation, and government officials — a blend of environmental sustainability with the post-Genocide ideals of unity, reconciliation, and resilience.

Wearing branded white t-shirts, loose-fitting jeans, and sneakers, this gathering, accompanied by the event sponsors (I&M) and local community members, roamed through Mbyo village, planting trees. Large in turnout, with an expansive presence. Later, all participants congregated under tents for the second phase of the ceremony, which aimed to provide much-needed context.

"Mbyo is one of eight villages established in 2003 to further the cause of practical reconciliation and restorative justice among Rwandans who were deeply affected by the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi,” said Bishop John Rucyahana, the chairman of Prison Fellowship. The construction of this reconciliation village occurred shortly after the genocide, during a tumultuous time marked by two opposing forces: the overwhelming anguish, loss, and suffering of survivors, and the burden of guilt and shame carried by the perpetrators when the world believed redemption was unattainable. As an illustration of this, Frederick, a former perpetrator of genocide, and Pelagie, who tragically lost seven family members, shared their stories of how they now peacefully coexist in their village.

"Thus, the act of planting trees might seem small, but its impact is very profound. As we gather here today to plant trees in this village, we are acknowledging the importance of unity, reconciliation, and resilience within our own community while contributing to the goals of the global environment,” Rucyahana continued. "We have fought against divisions in our society; we need to unite our efforts to fight climate change as well. Trees are a reminder of our shared responsibility towards a better environment, reminding us that despite our differences, we all rely on the same planet for our survival.”

In his role as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, Ozonnia Ojielo further unpacked the connection between Rwanda’s incredible journey towards post-Genocide unity and reconciliation, and the theme of the UN’s day, "Equality, Freedom, and Justice for All,” as they celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

"Mbyo Reconciliation Village, serving as a symbol of unity and reconciliation, stands as a testament to the resolute spirit of Rwanda and its people. If in 1994 we witnessed one of the darkest chapters in human history, today we are gathered in a place of reconciliation to show the triumph of unity over division.”

Ojielo also said that by planting trees, the collective intention was to symbolize growth, vitality, and rejuvenation. These represent the fundamental facets of Rwanda’s aspiration for societal renewal, community revitalisation, and a brighter future.

"So we want to congratulate the community and the government because this is not an easy journey; it’s not a path that has been trodden in many parts of the world. The path will not be smooth yet, but it’s in the focus on the ultimate goal that drives the resourcefulness of Rwanda, that unites all of us, development partners, civil society, and institutions, to work this journey together with you,” he added.

The dignitary concluded by expressing gratitude to the sponsors and encouraged them to take the initiative in advancing collaboration to the next level.

Ultimately, it’s the shared values between the UN and I&M that serve as the bedrock of their partnership. This is why they have been collaborating since the inception of I&M Bank in 1963 and, subsequently, the establishment of the UN in Rwanda.

Mugazi remarked, "I&M believes in unity and reconciliation, so this is a chance to further strengthen our dedication to supporting the government and people of Rwanda under this banner. We are wholeheartedly committed to enhancing the quality of life within the communities we serve. Given the significance and the underlying values of this event, we deemed it fitting to become partners in it. We want to thank the UN for allowing us to be a part of this.”