More than 10 000 seedlings to be planted in Kageyo

In collaboration with Winrock International, a nonprofit organization that works around the world to empower the disadvantaged, increase economic opportunity, and sustain natural resources, AMC have purchased seedlings from an established nursery in Kageyo to plant in the local community.

Last Saturday, coinciding with Umuganda (community service day in Rwanda), Park Manager, Jes Gruner, and Community Liaison Manager, Joseph Karama, visited Kageyo to begin to help plant some of the 10,000 trees purchased.

Every subsequent Saturday during December AMC and the local community will voluntary come together to plant the remaining trees over the 20 hectares identified for the purpose. Five hectares has been allocated by the local government and the additional 15 hectares by local landowners. The trees will be widely spaced, to allow the owners to continue to cultivate between them.

The seedlings are a combination of fuel wood, wood for construction and fruit trees. In addition, each household in Kageyo has been given 3 trees to plant at their home. AMC will assist in planting and ongoing monitoring of the woodlots to ensure their development.

The demand for food and wood as a source of energy can place a heavy burden on protected areas if unavailable in the local communities due to an increasing population and pressure on the natural resources. If the demand is to be met on a sustainable basis, it is essential that more trees are planted in communities and on agricultural land.