The hills of Gisagara and Huye districts came alive with renewed hope on December 13 as Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, together with community leaders, government officials, students, farmers and local residents, planted 9,000 trees in a large-scale environmental and livelihood initiative.

The exercise saw the planting of 3,000 fruit trees and 6,000 mixed-species trees, aimed at increasing forest cover, protecting the environment, improving nutrition and strengthening community wellbeing. The initiative aligns with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050 goals.

Speaking at the event, Equity Bank Rwanda Managing Director Hannington Namara said tree planting goes beyond symbolism and reflects a deeper commitment to sustainable development.

"A tree is life. It provides fruit, shade and fresh air. Planting a tree reflects our commitment to restoring our soil, improving agricultural productivity and sustaining life. When the land thrives, communities thrive,” Namara said.

He noted that the initiative forms part of the bank’s broader mission to improve livelihoods, protect the environment and create long-term economic opportunities for Rwandans.

The tree-planting drive was carried out in partnership with the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR), with students actively participating as part of their environmental education.

"These trees teach us responsibility, sustainability and service to society,” said Jeannette Uwingeneye, a CUR education student. "We are proud to contribute to something that will benefit communities for generations.”

Local residents highlighted the tangible economic and social benefits of tree planting, particularly fruit trees such as avocados.

Antoine Ndimurwango, a 70-year-old resident of Gatoki Village in Gisagara, described trees as a long-term investment. "Trees provide firewood, improve soil fertility and generate income. One avocado tree can earn between Rwf 7,000 and 10,000, and over time it becomes a reliable source of income. I encourage the youth to plant trees,” he said.

Anne Marie Ntakirutimana, 28, also from Gisagara, said fruit trees have improved both her family’s nutrition and income. "I have seven avocado trees. I sell some harvests and share others with my family. One tree can earn up to Rwf 60,000 per harvest, twice a year. Tree planting improves our health and livelihoods,” she said.

Equity Bank officials emphasized that the initiative is as much about economic empowerment as it is about environmental protection.

"These trees are a source of wealth, healthy living and a legacy for our children,” Namara said. "Fruit trees generate income, while mixed species protect the land and create opportunities for youth and women.”

Loyce K. Bamwine, Director of Social Impact Investments at Equity Bank Rwanda, said the program is part of a nationwide, long-term sustainability strategy.

"In 2025 alone, Equity Bank has planted over 42,000 trees across Rwanda. We integrate environmental conservation with education, agriculture and community empowerment, engaging farmers, youth, women, people with disabilities and refugees, while providing training in financial literacy, agriculture, leadership and governance,” she said.

The partnership was also praised by CUR leadership. Rev. Fr. Dr. Laurent Ntaganda, Vice Chancellor of the Catholic University of Rwanda, said the collaboration offers students practical exposure beyond the classroom.

"Equity Bank brings real-world experience to our students. Through tree planting, they contribute to nutrition, environmental protection and sustainable development, while learning how business and social impact intersect,” he said.

Local authorities underscored the growing economic value of fruit trees. André Kamana, Vice Mayor of Huye District in charge of Economic Development, described avocados as "green gold.”

"One avocado tree can yield 100 to 200 kilograms annually, with rising demand locally and internationally, including exports to China. Trees also prevent soil erosion and enrich the land while generating income for families,” he said.

The initiative is part of Equity Group Holdings’ broader environmental conservation strategy implemented across all countries where the Group operates through the Equity Group Foundation. In Rwanda, it complements the bank’s financial services, including agricultural financing, green loans and tailored products for farmers, youth, women and small businesses.

Closing the event, Namara thanked the Catholic University of Rwanda and the Gisagara and Huye district authorities for their partnership and support.

"By planting trees, we are planting hope, prosperity and resilience for generations to come,” he said.