Land Restoration for Resilient and Sustainable Farming Systems in Rutsiro District

Under the Terrafund for AFR100 initiative, ROAM is implementing a Landscape Restoration for Resilient and Sustainable Farming System project in Rutsiro District with the aim of restoring degraded landscapes, improving soil health, and promoting sustainable farming practices. Key restoration sites include: Reparian area: Kiruri River & Kazibaziba River, Rwishwa River Natural Forest: Sure Forest Agroforestry area: Farmlands for community members/Farmers Key Activities: Establishment of Tree Nursery: Develop and manage tree nursery to produce quality seedlings for use in restoration activities across the project area. Tree Planting and Distribution: Implement tree planting along riverbanks and within degraded natural forest areas. Distribute agroforestry tree species to farmers and community members for integration into their farmlands to enhance soil fertility and improve farm productivity. Training and Capacity Building: Provide practical training to farmers and community members on landscape restoration techniques, tree care, and long-term maintenance to ensure the success and sustainability of restoration efforts. Youth Engagement in Monitoring: Mobilize and engage local youth volunteers in data collection related to restoration activities, including monitoring tree survival rates and tracking the growth and health of planted trees. Collaboration with Local Authorities: Work closely with local government institutions to promote ownership and ensure the long-term sustainability and institutional support of restoration interventions within the project area. Impact Environmental Impact: Enhancing Soil fertility and protection Improving ecosystem health Biodiversity Enhancement Mitigating climate change Socioeconomic Impact: Job creation among community members within the project area Increased farm productivity through sustainable organic practices Income diversification from agroforestry products (fruits, timber, medicinal plants) Empowered youth and women through participation in restoration interventions Community and Institutional Impact: Strengthened local community members on landscape restoration interventions Fostered collaboration between communities, local leaders, and environmental stakeholders Contributed to Rwanda’s national landscape restoration targets under AFR100