GASABO - The staff of Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) branch in Rwanda yesterday planted 1,600 trees in Kabuga, Gasabo district of Kigali City.

The financial institution’s Head of Business, Gloria Nyambok, said that the tree planting exercise was part of ‘Umuganda’ (communal work), performed by all members in the community. The trees were planted in Nyagahinga sector along the tarmac road connecting Mulindi to Kabuga.

"This is part of the projects through the KCB foundation, where we actively get involved in building and offering back to the community,” she said.

"We are here to serve the community,” Nyambok stressed, adding: "If it wasn’t the community, we wouldn’t be here.”
The trees were estimated to cost Kenya’s financial giant Rwf700,000.

The programme was saluted by members of the community who also participated by digging the holes for the trees. They also pledged to work with KCB staff in looking after the trees.

Jean Paul Mwizerwa, the leader of Kabutare village said that the trees will create beautiful scenery in the area.

"It is also good for environmental protection.” However, Nyambok said that as long as KCB Rwanda continues to exist, participating in Umuganda will always be a priority for community development.

"We expect to continue with the tree planting exercise in other parts of the country, as the bank takes a firm stand in Rwanda.”

KCB started its operations in Rwanda late last year with two branches. More branches are expected in major towns of Gisenyi, Ruhengeri, Butare, Cyangugu and Nyagatare before the end of this year.

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