Authorities in Rubavu have launched a major urban greening initiative, with plans to plant 17,000 trees for beautifying the town and building resilience against climate change as part of broader efforts of positioning as a secondary city to Kigali. The species expected to be planted include Royal Palm and Sena spectabilis expected to enhance public spaces and roadsides, and species of avocados, mangoes, and guavas set to provide local residents with a source of food for food security and environmental resilience. These trees will not only provide shade and greenery but also contribute to local food security, explained Jean Claude Murangwabugabo, the Director of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Rubavu District. ALSO READ: MPs push for urgent flood mitigation measures in Rubavu Other trees are set to be planted on farmlands to improve soil fertility and prevent erosion, which is a major concern in the hilly landscape of Rubavu. “Trees help to manage storm-water runoff in several ways. Their leaves and branches intercept rainfall, slowing its descent. Their root systems and the surrounding soil absorb and filter a significant amount of water. This reduces the strain on urban drainage systems and can help prevent local flooding and soil erosion,” Murangwabugabo noted. The program also includes constructing a modern landfill at Rutagara to improve waste management and promote recycling and installation of public waste bins for waste collection and promoting better disposal of trash among residents. Francine Uwineza, Executive Secretary of Gisenyi Sector, believes that urban greening will see Rubavu town “beautified as a tourism and business gateway.” She said her sector alone has a target of planting 5,000 trees. ALSO READ: Western Province issues stark warning against illegal mining Deogratias Nzabonimpa, Vice Mayor in Charge of Economic Development, called upon residents to actively participate in the project by adopting a culture of tree planting”, and avoiding cutting them.
