Rwanda aims to plant 65. 2 million trees as part of the 2024-2025 National Tree Planting Season according to Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA). The tree planting season will be launched on October 26 in Rwamagana District during the monthly Umuganda community work. The season will be closed in November. ALSO READ: What are Rwanda’s top 10 forestry conservation-related projects? This annual initiative aims to combat climate change and restore degraded land. The trees include both native and exotic tree species. “This endeavor will not only restore damaged forests but also bolster agricultural practices, protect vital river ecosystems, and provide crucial habitats for wildlife,” the forestry authority said in a statement on Monday, October 14. The Tree Planting Day has served as a reminder of the essential role trees play in people’s lives—supporting biodiversity, purifying air, and enhancing livelihood of various communities. ALSO READ: Rwanda allocates over 7,000 hectares of state forests to investors The theme for this year’s tree planting season, “Plant a Tree, Nurture It, Save the Planet,” resonates with a shared responsibility to care for the earth, RFA said. “It further emphasizes that each of us has a part to play in nurturing our environment for future generations,” the forestry authority said. ALSO READ: One Acre Fund to help farmers plant native trees To kick off the season, a series of engaging activities will take place, designed to raise awareness about the importance of tree planting. The country is also set to showcase the impact of tree planting over the past seven years, complemented by stories from farmers and insightful talks from prominent figures in the environmental sector. ALSO READ: Over 850 hectares of old forests restored The RFA invited all Rwandans, friends, and partners to join us in the important mission to plant trees. “By coming together, we can make a significant impact in restoring our forests and ensuring a vibrant future for the generations to come,” it said. “Let us unite in the spirit of environmental stewardship, protecting our planet through the simple yet powerful act of tree planting and community service.” Rwanda's forest cover is currently 724,695 hectares, making up 30.4% of the country's land area. The country targets to restore two million hectares of degraded land by 2030. Rwanda became one of the early adopters of the Bonn Challenge - a global effort to bring 350 million hectares of the world’s deforested and degraded land into restoration by 2030. ALSO READ: Rwanda on course to restore two million hectares of deforested land The government has also established Tree Seed Centres in Gatsibo and Huye districts to increase the availability of high-quality seeds. The centres promote improved woodlot management, efficient charcoal production, and alternative energy and, importantly, improved seed quality. The centres are a one-stop-shop for tree seed supply activities, such as establishing new seed sources, tree improvement, genetic conservation, as well as seed collection, processing and distribution.
