The update was shared by Dr Festus Maniriho, who heads the FIP-PRODAR project, a $18 million initiative aimed at environmental conservation, with a focus on agroforestryâ€"planting trees alongside crops.
The project, which runs from 2023 to 2028, is being implemented in eight districts: Kamonyi, Muhanga, Ruhango, Nyanza, Huye, Gisagara, Nyaruguru, and Gakenke. By its completion, it aims to restore up to 60,000 square kilometres of land.
Dr Maniriho attributed the milestone to the government's commitment and support from development partners in addressing the impact of climate change.
'More than 31% of Rwanda's total land is now covered with trees, including agroforestry. This demonstrates how seriously the country is investing in environmental protection,' he said.
The most commonly planted tree species for timber include eucalyptus, grevillea, and alnus. The government continues to distribute seedlings to communities to encourage expansion of forested areas.
In Gisenyi Sector, part of Rubavu District, forestry officer Tuyisenge Aaron said there are over 600 documented forest plots covering approximately 194 hectares, primarily planted with eucalyptus trees. Despite its urban setting, Gisenyi maintains a substantial forest cover, managed through six cooperatives that oversee proper harvesting and prevent premature tree cutting.
Local residents are also contributing to reforestation efforts. Sibomana Athanase, a farmer from Rugerero Sector, has planted 156 avocado trees on a hillside in Rubavu.
'I expect the trees to generate income, especially since avocados are in high demand. My children will benefit from the harvest, and I'll sell the rest to cover school fees,' he said.
The Rwanda Rural Rehabilitation Initiative (RWARRI) is among the organisations playing a key role in afforestation, especially in rural areas. In partnership with other stakeholders, RWARRI planted more than 200,000 trees in Rubavu and Rutsiro districts in 2024/2025. These areas border the Sebeya River and Lake Kivu. The organisation now aims to double that number.
'This year, we plan to plant 400,000 trees across over 500 hectares, particularly on hills surrounding Lake Kivu,' said Uwizeye Belange, RWARRI's Executive Director.
Tree planting is also central to Rwanda's broader climate action agenda. The country aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030, and reforestation plays a vital role in capturing carbon emissions.
Looking ahead, the government plans to plant 100 million trees by 2027, including over 6.4 million fruit trees, with a focus on 11 priority districts most in need of forest cover.
IGIHE
