RUSIZI/NYAMASHEKE-The Minister for Environment and Natural Resources, Stanislas Kamanzi, has called upon the population to register their land as part of ongoing agricultural reforms based on the new land policy.

Kamanzi said the registration process should at least be 50 percent complete by the end of June this year. 

He made the remarks during his visit to Nyamasheke and Rusizi districts, where he addressed residents on environmental protection and land conservation issues.

"Here in Rwanda, land is our legacy. The benefits of registering land are many; land acts as guarantee for bank loans, land registration also prevents wrangles related to land,” stated the Minister.

He also called upon residents to plant more trees in their parcels to prevent soil erosion.

The Mayor for Rusizi, Oscar Nzeyimana, praised the income-generating initiatives by residents of Muganza and Bugarama sectors.

"Bugarama and Muganza are now known as the biggest suppliers of oranges in Kigali City. Other sectors should follow their example,” the Mayor said.

Rusizi and Nyamasheke residents welcomed the ministers’ remarks.

"After closely listening to the minister’s remarks, we think that land registration will be beneficial to us,” said Ephraim Matabaro, a resident of Muganza.

Kamanzi further urged Nyamasheke residents to conserve and preserve the neighbouring Nyungwe Park.

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