Friends of Environment and Social Development (FESD)

Friends of Environment and Social Development (FESD) is dedicated to advancing sustainable development by integrating social well-being with environmental stewardship. With seven years of experience, FESD has established a strong track record in ecological restoration, particularly through community-driven initiatives in the Nzahaha area. The organization is recognized for its collaborative approach, working closely with local stakeholders to implement transformative programs that address environmental degradation, climate change, and poverty. FESD’s previous achievements include large-scale tree planting and the integration of livelihood activities such as vegetable gardening and mushroom cultivation, which have fostered local ownership and long-term sustainability.

The proposed project seeks to restore 250 hectares of degraded hillside land along the Rusizi catchment in Nzahaha through a comprehensive, community-led approach. FESD will empower local beneficiaries by providing training in ecological restoration and sustainable agroforestry, enabling them to plant and maintain 70,000 indigenous and agroforestry trees and establish vegetative buffer zones along the Rusizi River. The project aims to enhance ecosystem health, improve climate resilience, and strengthen the livelihoods of 240 vulnerable households—especially women and youth—by creating green jobs and supporting income-generating activities such as home gardening and mushroom farming. Six local community groups will be established to ensure participatory management and long-term stewardship, with ongoing monitoring, financial support through a community fund, and collaboration with local authorities to reinforce environmental, institutional, and financial sustainability.