Kigali Water Ltd, a subsidiary of AWID responsible for operating the Kigali Bulk Water treatment plant, on Saturday, October 26, spearheaded the annual Tree Planting Day in Ntarama sector, Kanzenze cell in Bugesera District, aligning with Rwanda’s Umuganda community service.

The plant has the capacity to treat 40 million litres of water daily, distributing 30 million litres to Kigali and 10 million litres to Bugesera.

During the event, 12,500 trees, including a variety of seedlings and mature species, were planted to promote environmental sustainability.

Key attendees included Marie Solange Kayisire, the Minister of State for Local Government, the Mayor of Bugesera District Richard Mutabazi, Hon. Fazil Harerimana, local security officials, staff from Kigali Water, the community of Bugesera District, and other officials that included a delegation from the Kingdom of Lesotho led by the Minister of Tourism, Sport, Art, and Culture, alongside the Minister of Environment.

This collaborative effort underscores Kigali Water’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement in the region.

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As the kick-off of the 2024-2025 tree planting season took place, Marie Solange Kayisire, Minister of State for Local Government, expressed her enthusiasm for participating in the community initiative in Bugesera, while highlighting the dual commitment to not only initiating the planting effort but also ensuring the ongoing care and preservation of nature.

"Today is significant as we embark on a new season of tree planting. I look forward to collaborating with you to plant more trees in areas that require preservation, particularly to support the ecosystem related to our rivers and to ensure a sustainable water supply for our homes. While this programme focuses on planting trees, we must also emphasise the importance of maintenance,” she stated.

Minister Kayisire welcomed the guests from Lesotho who had been in Rwanda for several days. She emphasised that their visit was part of a programme aimed at fostering knowledge exchange between nations, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared experiences in strengthening ties between the two countries.

The general manager of Kigali Water Ltd, Ahmed Tony, highlighted the significance of participating in Umuganda as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility, underscoring that this ongoing commitment is vital for combating climate change and improving the environment.

"We are very happy to take part in this event because it reflects our commitment to the community, and I believe we should all keep planting trees everywhere, not just on the national Tree Planting Day but throughout the entire year,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of tree planting, noting that Kigali Water will be actively involved in planting trees over the next two years as part of a collaborative effort with Bugesera District.

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After the tree planting and weed removal activities along the Akagera River and other areas, the mayor, Mutabazi, emphasised the importance of active participation in agricultural development, encouraging community members to contribute to the nation’s progress.

He urged the community to remain vigilant against the Marburg epidemic.

"I am very proud of everyone’s contributions today; you were early and productive, which is very important even for us in fostering economic growth, but I also want to encourage everyone to continue prioritising health measures to avoid the spread of this disease,” he added.

One of the community members of Bugesera District, Francine Nikuze, expressed her gratitude for the positive changes brought by Kigali Water, highlighting that the availability of clean water has significantly improved their lives.

"I planted three trees today and feel happy doing so because trees help attract rain and combat drought. Kigali Water has provided us with clean water, which we didn’t have before, and we truly appreciate its value,” she said.

She also noted that today’s event was special, as it allowed her to connect with local leaders who listened to the community’s needs, fostering a sense of appreciation and hope for continued support.

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