Forest4Life and farmers unite for agroforestry during Rwanda’s rainy season

November 14, 2024

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Rwanda has three growing seasons, two of which are rainy: season A, from September to January, and season B, from February to May. There is also season C, known as the dry season, which runs from June to August. Among these, Season A has the heaviest and most consistent rainfall, making it the ideal time for planting, as seedlings receive enough water to grow, significantly increasing their survival rates.

As the cropping season A started, the Forest4Life team is overjoyed to continue our mission of planting and distributing native, Indigenous trees mixed with fruit trees across the village . This season, we are not just planting trees, we are cultivating a future where ecosystems thrive, and local farmers prosper.

Forest4Life team distributing trees. Photo: Safari Ombeni

The rainy season marks an important period for both farmers and reforestation efforts. Regular rainfall provides the ideal conditions for tree seedlings to establish strong root systems, ensuring their survival and long-term growth. At Forest4Life, we understand the importance of timing, and that’s why this season, we are focusing on planting native trees like Markhamia lutea , Acacia Abyssinia and Mango trees in sync with the farming calendar as we are doing agroforestry.

Claudine Kamanzi is working with Agnes to remove the tree cover. Photo: Reponse

Farmers’ preparation for the cropping season

Across many farming communities in Rwanda, preparations for the cropping season are well underway. Farmers are tilling their fields, applying organic fertilizers, and selecting crop varieties that align with the expected weather patterns. They are also ensuring that the land is ready to absorb the seasonal rains, which are vital for both their crops and the newly planted trees.

Farmers preparing their land for season A in 2025. Photo: Iradukunda

Indigenous trees that add nutrients like nitrogen to the soil play a pivotal role in the agricultural landscape. Not only do they provide shade, but they also improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen and preventing erosion. By integrating tree planting with farming activities, farmers help create a more resilient environment that supports productive agriculture and enhances biodiversity.

Native Indigenous trees ready to be planted. Photo: Kamanzi Claudine

Planting trees to thrive in the rain

Rainfall is the lifeblood of reforestation efforts, particularly when it comes to establishing native trees. During this season, Forest4Life will be collaborating with farmers to plant tree species that are well-suited to local ecosystems. These trees will be placed strategically in areas where they can capture and hold rainfall, further helping to restore natural water cycles.

We aim to plant trees such as Acacia, Ficus, and fruit trees like Mangoes and Avocados, which are known for their ability to withstand the local climate while supporting the environment. These species provide critical habitat for wildlife like birds and butterflies that are and act as natural barriers against soil degradation.

As farmers focus on their crops, our tree-planting efforts will complement their hard work, ensuring that the newly planted trees thrive alongside the seasonal rains.

Cyuzuzo Prince planting his avocado tree on his farm. Photo: Kamanzi Claudine

Looking ahead: a future of sustainability

At Forest4Life, we believe that the future of agriculture and the environment is deeply integrated. By working together with farmers in our community, we are creating sustainable landscapes that will benefit generations to come. Our commitment to planting Indigenous trees during the cropping season is one way we are contributing to a healthier planet, one tree at a time.