KAMONYI — The Minister of Forestry and Mines, Christophe Bazivamo, has asked Rwandans to construct seedbeds in each cell and plant fruit trees in each family as part of efforts to protect the environment.

Bazivamo made the call during his visit to residents of Gacurabwenge sector in Kamonyi district last Friday. He was accompanied by the Director  General of the Ministry of Information, Ignatius Kabagambe and other district leaders.

"The process of planting trees should kick off in each cell by the end of May. This activity should also be done in each homestead so as to have full ownership and participation of all Rwandans in environmental protection,” he said.

He named Karongi, Nyabihu and Rubavu as some of the districts which are lagging behind in the program of establishing seedbeds at cell level.

Bazivamo also toured environmental activities in Rwabasha and Gihembe primary schools.

He castigated local leaders over poor maintenance of Rwabasha seedbeds, adding that government funds should be put to proper use and seedlings distributed to all residents.

He however, lauded Gihembe pupils for planting trees all over the school compound, stressing that pupils should be taught the value of protecting the environment.

Addressing residents at ‘Ijuru rya Kamonyi’ the minister said, "The security of residents is primary basis of development and there is need to strive for good leadership, justice and unity in order to attain the country’s development goals.”

Kabagambe on his part urged residents to use their rights to seek information, accountability and explanations from government leaders.

He also encouraged the residents to vote wisely and promote national development.

Residents raised various concerns ranging from alleged injustice among some local leaders. However, they  commended the government for promoting security, peace, unity and reconciliation in the past 16 years.

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