In 2020, Rwanda’s Gicumbi District launched the Green Gicumbi project, a climate resilience initiative aimed at helping local communities adapt to the effects of climate change.

The project introduced several interventions, including climate-resilient farming practices. These efforts led to the construction of 600 hectares of progressive terraces and 850 hectares of radical terraces. In addition, 3,000 hectares of land were rehabilitated using erosion control trenches and reforested with grasses and agroforestry trees, particularly on steep slopes with gradients over 55%.

One of the project’s direct beneficiaries is Jean Marie Vianey Minani, a resident of Nyaruka Cell in Cyumba Sector. He recalls that before the terraces were built, the farmland in his area was severely degraded and unproductive, largely due to soil erosion.

“Before the terraces, we farmed but harvested almost nothing. The soil was constantly washed away,” Minani says. “Since Green Gicumbi came and trained us, yields have significantly improved. For example, wheat production rose from just 800 kilograms per hectare to four tons. The same goes for other crops—our harvests have nearly tripled thanks to the terracing.”

Minani explains that previously, farming was disorganized and unproductive. But with the introduction of structured agricultural practices and proper crop selection, he now earns up to 500,000 Rwandan Francs per season.

Feeling inspired to give back, Minani decided to use part of his income to support others in his community. So far, he has donated four cows and ten sheep to fellow residents, helping them also begin their journey toward self-reliance.

“The money I earn doesn’t benefit me alone,” he explains. “Whenever I get income, I buy livestock to support my neighbors. So far, I’ve given out four cows and ten sheep. They now own and care for them.”

He adds: “After the next harvest, I plan to buy three more sheep and continue helping others. All of this is possible because of Green Gicumbi.”

In Cyumba Sector alone, the Green Gicumbi project, in collaboration with local residents, has developed 40 hectares of progressive terraces a key step in transforming both the land and lives of the community.