Gicumbi, September 26, 2025: More than 600 youth from the Northern Province of Rwanda gathered in Gicumbi District for a special youth Umuganda dedicated to combating soil erosion, reaffirming their role as a driving force in protecting the environment and adapting to climate change.
The activity, organized by the Rwanda Youth in Agribusiness Forum (RYAF) in partnership with Green Gicumbi and the Gicumbi District, focused on planting agroforestry trees and Napier grass, which both feed cows, goats, and sheep and prevent soil erosion.
Speaking during Umuganda, RYAF Chief Executive Officer Rwiririza Jean Marie Vianney said, “You have seen youth (RYAF members) contributing to the fight against erosion by planting agroforestry trees and napier grasses on radical terraces.”
He emphasized that the initiative was not only about planting but also about educating local landowners on sustainable land management. Mr. Rwiririza also urged youth to continue contributing within their own communities. “Wherever you live, play your part in the fight against erosion.”
Jean Marie Vianney Kagenza, the Green Gicumbi Project Coordinator, highlighted the critical role of youth in shaping Rwanda’s sustainable future.
Youth should continue to support the country in building a green Rwanda, a country free from erosion, productive, and sustainable. When we talk about proper land management, youth are the strength of the nation, and they are today’s and tomorrow's farmers.”
He concluded by urging the youth to work closely with farmers, since they possess the knowledge needed to modernize agriculture and make it more productive.
The special Umuganda achieved impressive results: over 2 million Napier grasses were planted on radical terraces, along with 1000 grevillea trees. Additionally,1000 avocado trees were distributed to local households to plant in their home, combating environmental conservation with food security.
Written By Jean Bernard MUKUNDENTE