Gicumbi, Sept 26, 2025;Over 600 youth in the Northern Province of Rwanda gathered in Gicumbi District for a youth Umuganda focused on soil erosion. This event highlighted their environmental role in adapting to climate change.

It was organized by the RYAF Forum in collaboration with Green Gicumbi and the Gicumbi District. The forestry trees and Napier grass were planted during this Umuganda, which provides fodder for cows, goats, and sheep while preventing soil erosion on steep terraces.

RYAF Chief Executive Officer Rwiririza Jean Marie Vianney said, during Umuganda, "You witnessed the youth contribution (of RYAF members) in the battle against erosion through the planting of agroforestry trees and Napier grasses on radical terraces." He added that the awareness of local landowners about sustainability standards of land management was raised; in addition, he urged youth to keep their active involvement within their communities.

Coordinator for the Green Gicumbi Project, Jean Marie Vianney Kagenza, stated that youth are a stronghold for economic status and productive sustenance for Rwanda. He said, "In terms of efficient land management, youth are the stronghold of the nation and are today's and tomorrow's farmers," and he encouraged them to strengthen collaboration with farmers to modernize agriculture.

Youth participants from across the northern province of Rwanda expressed appreciation to Rwanda Youth in Agribusiness Forum and Green Gicumbi for bringing them together, pledging to apply the knowledge gained in their own districts to advance Rwanda’s vision of becoming a green nation and to boost agricultural productivity.

Umuganda produced fantastic results: well over 2 million Napier grasses were planted on radical terraces, and also around 1,000 grevillea trees. Besides, 1,000 avocado trees were given to local households, thus linking environmental protection with food security.

RYAF Communication Team