September 18, 2024: The Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) participated in World Bamboo Day, organized by EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda Ltd. The event took place in Nyamagabe District, Cyanika sector, along Kaviri River.

Bernard Musana Segatagara, Head of the Knowledge and Forecasting Department at RWB, highlighted the crucial role of bamboo in preventing soil erosion and restoring degraded land. He expressed gratitude to EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda for their ongoing efforts in river preservation through bamboo planting.

“Today, we see the benefits of bamboo. Those near  Mwogo or Nyabarongo rivers can witness how it protects riverbanks. EcoPlanet's support gives us hope for positive changes in river protection,” Bernard stated.

Shalon Higiro Umuratwa, General Manager of EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda Ltd, explained their focus on Nyamagabe District, which is severely affected by soil erosion. She emphasized bamboo's environmental benefits, saying, “Bamboo protects the ozone layer, combats erosion, and safeguards riverbanks, resulting in cleaner water for our daily needs.”

Thaddee Habimana, the Vice Mayor in charge of economic development in Nyamagabe District, encouraged residents to care for the planted bamboo, ensuring its growth to secure land along the rivers. “You’ve learned about measures to protect riverbanks. It’s vital to plant above the bamboo; otherwise, rain will wash away the soil and your investment,” he warned.

This marks the first celebration of World Bamboo Day in Rwanda, expanding awareness of bamboo's vital role in environmental protection.

The Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) and EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda Ltd have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on the restoration of 2150 hectares of riparian buffer zones in the districts of Muhanga, Karongi, Ruhango, Ngororero, and Nyamagabe.