More than 160,000 fruit trees are set to be planted in Rwandan schools as part of a new initiative designed to enhance school nutrition, promote environmental awareness, and teach kids about climate change.
On May 18, UNICEF and Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment signed a memorandum to kick off this program. Known as “Our Trees, Our Future” (or “Ibiti Byacu, Ejo Heza Hacu”), the effort will provide each of the 4,496 primary schools and 232 Early Childhood Development centers with around 40 fruit tree seedlings. Types include avocado, mango, orange, and lemon.
Officials believe this initiative is more than just tree planting. It will support students’ health while giving them hands-on experience in environmental conservation. The project is set to start during the rainy season between September and November, with seedlings already being prepared.
Crucially, the plan includes not just planting trees but also ongoing support—like grafting and care—to ensure the trees thrive. This will be implemented gradually over the academic year.
Etleva Kadilli, the UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, highlighted how Rwanda’s approach uniquely connects climate action with children’s education. She emphasized that children must be prepared to address climate challenges and that this initiative allows them to actively participate.
Rwanda has one of the highest primary school enrollment rates in Africa, making schools an ideal platform to reach a broad audience. Kadilli hopes that this model could be replicated in other regions facing similar climate issues.
The Minister of Environment, Bernadette Arakwiye, said the initiative builds on Rwanda’s larger reforestation goals. The country aims to grow 300 million seedlings to boost its forest cover, currently at 30.4%. Schools were chosen for this program because many have available land that can support tree growth while also benefiting school meals.
Arakwiye noted that planting fruit trees addresses multiple issues: combating environmental degradation, enhancing food security, and providing climate education. Each tree will help absorb carbon dioxide, improve air quality, enrich soil, and provide nutritious food.
The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Charles Karakye, pointed out that while Rwanda has around 5,000 schools, many do not regularly include fruits in meals offered to students. He also mentioned that mature trees can serve as natural windbreakers, protecting school buildings from storms.
Belinda Bwiza, CEO of One Acre Fund, which is involved in the initiative, highlighted that over 2,000 local tree nursery entrepreneurs—many of whom are youth and women—will benefit from this project. By creating demand for seedlings, the program aims to boost rural livelihoods and encourage environmental restoration.
Finally, Lieke van de Wiel, UNICEF Country Director, shared that this initiative aligns with UNICEF’s long-standing partnership with Rwanda. It emerged from a desire to celebrate 40 years of collaboration while making a lasting impact. She believes that as students care for these trees, they will develop a connection to them and enjoy the fruits of their labor for years to come.
This program reflects a growing trend in education and community service, encouraging hands-on approaches to important global issues like climate change and nutrition. As Rwanda takes these steps, it sets an example for other nations looking to engage their youth in meaningful environmental stewardship.
For more insights on sustainable education initiatives, check out this report from UNICEF or learn about similar programs in various countries.
