The Ministry of Natural Resources in collaboration with the African Model Forest Network is working tirelessly to have a model forest in North-western part of Rwanda.
The initiative is in the framework of implementing the Landscape Restoration initiative and strategies undertaken by the Government of Rwanda to control soil erosion.
While speaking to RNA reporter Julie Gagoe, in charge of Partnership in African Model Forest Network (AMFN) explained that this project (Model Forest) is not defined as such a forest, but all activities aimed at protecting the environment in given area.
“These are vast territories based on Voluntary Partnership reflecting together on problems they encounter such as those of the degradation of the environment and bring sustainable solutions while using the available resources.”
She added that being implemented; the project will contribute to the socio-economic life of the people of northwest part of Rwanda in particular, citizens living in District of Nyabihu, Musanze, Rubavu Rutsiro, Ngororero and Burerera.
“The beneficiaries may start a business based on forest” Gagoe stressed.
She gave the example of Cameron, where rural women participate in the fabrication of High quality pens made out of wood residues-Thanks to Model forests.
As stated, Mrs Angela Mukaminani, Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Affairs in Nyabihu District, people have started planting agroforesry species in their fields as they (agroforestry species) play the dual role not only for the protection of the environment, but also serve as a source of food in the region.
“When we say a model forest, it means that people participate in all activities aiming to restore landscape, However they make sure that what they do will benefit them later.”
Dancila Mukakamari of ARECO-Rwanda revealed that rural women in the Northwest of Rwanda participate in the bamboo plantation project as a way of contributing to Rwanda’s Model forest.
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