Location / SC

Bunyaruguru subcounty, Rubirizi District.

Entry year

2003

Trees Planted

600

After joining the project in 2003, Nazarius and his group received training from ECOTRUST staff. They were guided on the right conditions for growing different indigenous tree species and how to care for them. With this support, he planted 600 trees and began to see the forest on his land take shape. As the trees grew, Nazarius started receiving carbon payments. He used most of the money to take care of the forest—cleaning around the trees, protecting them from damage, and ensuring they had room to thrive. He also continued to grow pine trees, which provided quicker returns while he waited for the indigenous trees to mature.

Over the years, Nazarius watched his forest become more natural-looking, with undergrowth filling in and wildlife returning. His land slowly transformed into a healthy forest ecosystem. Now, he looks forward to harvesting the mature trees for timber, which he plans to sell. Once that’s done, he intends to plant more trees and keep the cycle going. For him, tree growing isn’t just about making money—it’s about building something sustainable and lasting.

Nazarius encourages anyone with available land to consider planting trees. He sees it as a wise investment that benefits not just the present generation, but the ones to come. He is deeply thankful to ECOTRUST for introducing him to this opportunity and helping him make the most of his land. With a heart full of appreciation, he wishes the organization continued success in its efforts to promote environmental conservation and support local communities.