In an effort to support Kigali City’s ambitious goal of planting over three million trees in five years, students from Mount Kigali University, led by the university's Environment Club, planted more than 500 trees in Kicukiro Sector on November 21. The tree-planting campaign focused on key areas including EP Kagina, Kagina Early Childhood Development Center, and along the Kicukiro Centre-Rwandex road. The initiative is part of Kigali's broader commitment to sustainability and climate resilience. Dr. Martin Kimemia, Vice-Chancellor of Mount Kigali University, underscored the importance of tree planting in combating climate change. “Trees play a critical role in mitigating the effects of climate change by absorbing carbon, a major greenhouse gas. Urban centers like Kigali benefit significantly from tree canopies, which not only absorb carbon but also enhance the city’s beauty,” he said. Dr. Kimemia affirmed the university's dedication to such initiatives, adding, “We have a duty to protect our environment, and we will continue to actively support tree-planting efforts.” The Dean of Students, Lucie Uwimana, echoed Kimemia’s sentiments, emphasizing the alignment between the initiative and Kigali's environmental goals. “Our commitment to empowering future generations through quality education goes hand in hand with environmental sustainability. Without a healthy environment, education and other efforts are in vain. This is why we have supported the Environment Club in leading this initiative,” she explained. The initiative also garnered praise from local leaders. Hydayat Mukandahiro, Executive Secretary of Kicukiro Sector, lauded the effort, describing it as timely given Rwanda’s national tree-planting month in November. “This aligns with our national commitment to maintaining a green environment. Tree planting is integral to achieving Rwanda’s Vision 2050 goals, which focus on sustainability and climate resilience. Mount Kigali University students have set an inspiring example for all of us,” she noted. Student leaders were equally enthusiastic about their contribution. Gloria Nyemanzi, President of the Mount Kigali University Student Guild, highlighted the role of youth in shaping Kigali’s future. “As students, it’s crucial to support the city’s environmental goals. This tree-planting initiative is a step towards creating a sustainable future. We are proud of this collective effort to positively impact our community,” she said. The event also received recognition from Eric Uwizeyimana, Executive Secretary of Ngoma Cell, who praised the university for its commitment to environmental stewardship. “Trees symbolize environmental care and sustainability. Through this initiative, Mount Kigali University has contributed significantly to safeguarding the environment for future generations,” he said. The My Tree program, under which the initiative was conducted, aims to improve Kigali’s green cover by planting native and fruit trees in residential, recreational, and degraded forest areas. The program is vital to meeting Kigali’s climate targets and Rwanda's goal of achieving two million hectares of forest cover by 2030. Kimemia applauded the university’s Environmental Club for its leadership and commitment. He highlighted how the university supports various sustainability efforts, including training environmental journalists through its School of Journalism and Media Studies. These students are being equipped with skills to advocate for sustainability, raise awareness, and contribute to environmental education.
