A community-led agroforestry initiative in Gicumbi District is transforming degraded land, protecting crops from soil erosion, and offering farmers a sustainable way to boost yields and protect the environment.
Through the Green Gicumbi project, over 1,358 hectares of farmland in the Cyumba Sector have been enriched with agroforestry trees species planted alongside traditional crops which have proven to be a game-changer for both soil preservation and agricultural productivity.
Anastase Bwimana
Residents of Nyaruka Cell in Cyumba say the integration of trees into their farming systems has helped prevent soil erosion, improved soil fertility, and even contributed to more reliable rainfall.
The trees, whose leaves decompose naturally in the fields, act as organic fertilizer while also providing shade, windbreaks, and in some cases, fodder for livestock.
“These trees have changed everything,” said Anastase Bwimana, a local farmer. “Their leaves rot into natural manure, reducing the cost of fertilizers, and the trees protect our crops from strong winds.”
Florence Mukandayisenga, also from Nyaruka, added: “Ever since we planted these trees, we’ve seen better rainfall patterns. The leaves fall and improve the soil, helping our crops grow healthier and yield more.”
According to Modeste Nsanimana, Capacity Building Officer for the Green Gicumbi project, the trees have improved the moisture retention of the soil and reduced the impact of harmful greenhouse gases by capturing carbon.
“Agroforestry plays a dual role nurturing the land while restoring the ecosystem. These trees help maintain soil humidity, enrich it through leaf fall, and even clean the air,” he said.
Beyond environmental benefits, the trees are also playing an economic role.
Jean Marie Vianney Kagenza, Project Coordinator of Green Gicumbi, says the species chosen are multipurpose.
“Farmers use them to feed livestock, which has improved milk production due to better animal nutrition. They also provide fuelwood, fencing material, and can be used in traditional medicine,” he explained.
The project’s success reflects a broader shift toward climate-resilient farming, especially in hilly regions vulnerable to heavy rainfall and erosion. The trees planted include fast-growing nitrogen-fixing species that enrich the soil and stabilize steep slopes where erosion once washed away seeds and soil.
By blending indigenous knowledge with climate-smart practices, Green Gicumbi is helping farmers turn adversity into opportunity, using trees not just to shade the earth, but to secure their future.
