A new project that aims to plant nine million trees in eight Rwandan districts was launched on August 6, by Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA).

Dubbed Forest Investment Program (FIP), the project worth $18 million (approximately Rwf23.7bn) will be implemented in Kamonyi, Muhanga, Ruhango, Nyanza, Huye, Gisagara, Nyaruguru, and Gakenke districts.

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"Today, we stand at the threshold of a transformative era, the FIP project is not just an initiative. It is our commitment to safeguarding our forests and nurture sustainable livelihoods for our people," said Concorde Nsengumuremyi, the Director General of Rwanda Forestry Authority.

According to a related RFA statement, the project will tackle multiple challenges local farmers and nature at large used to face by restoring and stabilizing landscapes, improving rural community livelihoods through sustainable agroforestry value chains, and bolstering institutional and community resilience.

It is projected to cover 60,000 hectares by planting agroforestry trees mixed with crops and fruits which will enhance the reduction of soil erosion, reduce deforestation, tackle climate change related issues, elevate carbon absorption, boost agricultural production and strengthen community-based organizations and agroforestry research institutions.

Festus Maniriho, the project manager, stated: "The success of FIP hinges on the unity of purpose and collective action. Today marks the start of a journey where every partner, every community, and every individual, has a role to play."

The project will also feature other activities that will promote sustainable agriculture and forest stewardship in Rwanda. The activities will include supporting the restoration of river banks and floodplains, supplying and installing rainwater harvesting tanks, promoting the use of improved cooking stoves, supporting crop and agroforestry seed systems, and advancing techniques for compost production and green manure in degraded landscapes.

The project is set to run in five years from 2024 to 2028 and promises to reshape the landscape of Rwandas’ rural areas while fostering a greener and more resilient future.