Rwanda Celebrates 51st National Tree Day and Launches the 2026–2027 Tree Planting Season

Rwanda has officially launched the 2026–2027 Tree Planting Season, marking the celebration of the 51st National Tree Day under the theme “My Tree, My Legacy.” The season aims to strengthen the country's efforts in forest development, environmental conservation and climate change mitigation, with approximately 100 million tree seedlings expected to be planted across the country.

Addressing representatives of diplomatic missions and international organizations in Rwanda, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment highlighted the country's progress in forest conservation, noting that forests currently cover 30.4% of Rwanda's total land area.

The Permanent Secretary emphasized that this achievement reflects Rwanda's continued commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development, while underscoring the importance of strengthening efforts to protect and expand forest resources.

He noted that trees remain essential to human life and livelihoods, particularly in the face of growing climate change challenges and increasing pressure on natural resources. He called for a stronger culture of not only planting trees but also nurturing, protecting and ensuring their long-term survival.

The theme, “My Tree, My Legacy,” conveys a message of shared responsibility and inter-generational commitment. It highlights that planting a tree is an investment in the country's future, but ensuring that it grows into a healthy and productive tree is what transforms that investment into a lasting legacy.

During the 2026–2027 Tree Planting Season, approximately 100 million tree seedlings are planned to be planted nationwide, contributing to Rwanda's efforts to enhance forest cover, strengthen environmental resilience and promote sustainable development.

In his concluding remarks, the Permanent Secretary stressed that the country's legacy should not be measured by the number of seedlings planted today, but by the number of healthy, productive and well-protected trees left for future generations.

He called upon all stakeholders and partners to move beyond tree planting towards a culture of growing and protecting trees, emphasizing the need to shift from counting seedlings to ensuring their survival and from making commitments to taking responsibility.

The launch of the 2026–2027 Tree Planting Season reaffirms Rwanda's commitment to environmental stewardship and building a sustainable future for present and future generations.

“My Tree, My Legacy”.