Rwanda’s Western Province Plants Fruit Trees to Fight Malnutrition

Governor Jean Bosco Ntibitura of Western Province, Rwanda, is expanding fruit tree planting initiatives to address malnutrition and stunting in the region. The program focuses on increasing access to nutrient-rich fruits like avocados, mangoes, and guavas for household consumption. Officials hope each household will grow five fruit trees to improve nutrition and prevent malnutrition-related diseases.

Ngororero District currently has a stunting rate of 35.8 percent, with Rutsiro, Karongi, and Rubavu also experiencing high rates at 33.8, 33.5, and 33.1 percent respectively. Rutsiro District has already planted over 290,000 fruit trees in the last two years and aims to plant 450,000 more by June 2027.

The initiative, budgeted at Rwf 18 billion, will cover eleven districts and targets a total of 6.4 million edible fruit trees nationwide. While residents report a shift in understanding the importance of fruits, the long-term impact on stunting rates remains to be seen, and consistent monitoring will be necessary.