On Saturday, October 18, 2025, a remarkable community clean-up activity took place in Kamabuye village, Nyabagendwa cell, Rilima sector, marking a pivotal step in preparing for Rwanda's National Tree Planting Season. The event drew participation from residents of Ntarama cell and students from Nyamata schools, underlining a collective commitment to environmental conservation.
Key figures, including local leaders, renowned film actors, and the passionate organizers of the Mashariki African Film Festival—led by its director, Trésor Nsenga—joined hands to tackle climate change and improve the region’s green cover.
Actionable steps for a greener future: Activities at the event involved preparing land for planting trees, digging pits for fruit-bearing and forestry trees, and other sustainability-focused efforts. These undertakings contribute towards preserving natural resources and combating climate challenges.
This noble initiative serves as a precursor to the National Tree Planting Season launch, scheduled for October 25, 2025. The event set a tone of environmental awareness and collaboration to achieve Rwanda’s ambitious goal of planting over 150 million trees by 2027.
Nyamata sector's Executive Secretary, Efreme Sebarundi, lauded the cinematic community’s involvement, emphasizing the role of shared efforts in uniting communities and fostering collaboration. He said: "We are grateful that you chose to join us in this clean-up activity. It solidifies the bond of unity and partnership as we reflect on our history and move forward with strengthened resolve."
Trésor Nsenga, Director of Mashariki African Film Festival, expressed gratitude toward the Bugesera District administration and applauded the film actors for showing active participation. Delivering a motivational message, he acknowledged the excitement for upcoming November awards:
"All participants who are here today are contenders for the Mashariki awards, with significant prizes such as two brand-new cars up for grabs. The competition remains fierce, and we eagerly await to see who emerges victorious."
During the event, actors seized the opportunity to engage with community members, spreading awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and urging locals to support the vibrant Rwandan cinema industry. Their calls for support included voting for them in the upcoming festival's award competitions to enhance their chances of winning.
Rwanda’s National Tree-Planting Vision
With a target to plant over 150 million trees by 2027, the Rwandan Government has introduced multiple environmentally focused initiatives such as combining agroforestry with crops and planting fruit-bearing species to enhance food security and promote school nutrition programs. These efforts also align with Rwanda's strategic goal of combating climate change by increasing forest cover and planting rainfall-attracting tree species.
Trésor Senga, the director of Mashariki African Film Festival, commended the active contributions of film actors in preparing the land for tree planting. Their participation at such events highlights the significant role art and culture play in addressing global challenges.
Entertainment with Purpose
Renowned rapper Ama-G The Black delivered an exhilarating performance, captivating the gathered crowd after participating in the afternoon clean-up activity. The blend of art and environmentalism proved to be a powerful combination in inspiring grassroots community initiatives.
