Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, on March 22, joined residents of Nyagatare to plant 15,000 trees most of which are fruit trees. The initiative is part of efforts to combat drought, and erosion, and help the community achieve sustainable development.

The event was attended by the MD of Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, Hannington Namara, the Governor of the Eastern Province, Pudence Rubingisa, the Mayor of Nyagatare, and security officials.

Namara said the bank decided to contribute to tree planting efforts in the Eastern Province, creating a better environment for farming adding that such initiatives will also attract potential customers.

"We believe that a healthy, thriving citizen is the kind of person we want to serve. We want this activity to continue, planting more trees so that this province becomes a place with a healthy environment for farming and living. At Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, we believe that when citizens are doing well, especially in agriculture and livestock, they can build a better life, and we will support them in this journey,” he said.

He mentioned that the bank will collaborate with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Rwanda to provide biogas technology for residents to reduce pressure on forests.

He added that the bank also plans to partner with UNDP to help farmers embrace ‘hydroponic fodder’ technology to boost milk production.

The Mayor of Nyagatare District, Stephen Gasana, expressed gratitude for the initiative launched by Equity Bank Rwanda Plc to plant trees on eight hectares.

"Trees were previously planted in 2016 in the area, but some of them had not survived. This is why additional trees were planted to fill the gaps left by the dead ones. We believe that in the next five years, we will see this area transformed into a green and beautiful forest. We thank Equity Bank Rwanda Plc for this wonderful initiative to plant trees in this area,” he said.

Jean De Dieu Habyarimana, a resident of Nyagatare, said: "I have received five trees, including fruit trees, which I will plant around my home. They will also play a role in fighting malnutrition.”

Grace Mukandanga, a resident, also shared her appreciation, saying, "We have welcomed the trees we planted because they are beneficial to us. Once they grow, we hope they will help breathe fresh air and provide firewood, which is a major issue in this area.”

Governor Rubingisa thanked Equity Bank Rwanda Plc for its role in tree planting, noting that many people traditionally viewed banks only as places to save and withdraw money.

He commended the bank for going beyond by reaching out to the community to improve their livelihoods and support their development.

Fatmata Sesay, Resident Representative for UNDP Rwanda, joined the community for tree planting and highlighted how leadership and collaboration are key in tackling climate change. She pointed out that Rwanda’s bold policies and commitment to sustainability set an example for Africa.

"UNDP Rwanda and Equity Bank are working together on projects like afforestation and clean energy because climate action needs everyone. Protecting the environment is a shared responsibility,” she said.