Gicumbi: Governor Mugabowagahunde’s guidance to environmentally conscious residents
A tota of 632 residents received certificates in financial literacy and savings skills to support their economic empowerment after completing a six-month training program by the Green Gicumbi Project. During the graduation ceremony held on June 25, 2025, the Governor of the Northern Province, Maurice Mugabowagahunde, addressed the graduates with encouraging remarks.
He urged them to apply the knowledge they had acquired, emphasizing that if they implemented what they learned, they would no longer harm forests carelessly and would be better protected from climate-related disasters that previously led to significant losses.
The training, which covered various topics including savings, environmental protection, climate change adaptation, and cooperative organization, was part of the Green Gicumbi Project’s ongoing efforts in nine sectors of Gicumbi District. It aimed to help participants live harmoniously with nature while gaining economic benefits.
The Green Gicumbi Project, which has been active for nearly five years, has focused on reforestation, afforestation, construction of water retention pits on hillsides to fight soil erosion, and other climate resilience initiatives.
The 632 graduates, organized into 17 cooperatives, acknowledged that they previously worked individually. However, they were encouraged to form groups, which enabled them to gain access to easier and more effective financial support mechanisms.
Governor Mugabowagahunde urged them to use their savings wisely, subscribe to the national community health insurance scheme, and stay away from illegal drugs such as kanyanga (a locally brewed illicit alcohol).
He stated: “You are expected to apply what you’ve learned. Manage your cooperatives well, continue protecting the environment, and combat climate change. We don’t want to hear that Green Gicumbi trainees are involved in drug abuse such as kanyanga and similar substances.”
Jean Marie Vianney Kagenza, the Green Gicumbi Project Coordinator, noted that while the initiative initially faced skepticism especially when introducing forest restoration activities many residents have now embraced its benefits. He highlighted success stories where participants used project stipends to save money and invest in plots of land, farms, and livestock. Others who lived in high-risk areas were relocated to modern, climate-resilient housing.
Kagenza added: “We urge you to continue saving as trained, improve your livelihoods, and use your cooperatives as platforms to access loans from financial institutions. We’ve already helped around 100 families relocate to model villages to ensure their safety. We will continue to support you in making the most of the training you received.”
Florence Bihoyiki, a resident of Cyumba Sector, shared her testimony: “Before, I used to spend all the money I earned without saving even the smallest amount, which could have helped me grow. But now that I’ve learned how to save, I’m committed to building a better future.”
Teddy Mugabo, CEO of Rwanda Green Fund (FONERWA), commended the community members who took full advantage of the program and urged them to intensify forest conservation, implement anti-erosion techniques, and share their knowledge with others who didn’t have the chance to participate in the training.
The Green Gicumbi Project operates in nine sectors of Gicumbi District, with a primary focus on protecting the Muvumba River catchment, restoring forests, and strengthening communities’ resilience to climate change.
