Kayonza District in the Eastern Province is swapping corn stalks for colorful blooms in a new push to beautify the town.
Residents are encouraged to ditch crops like maize and sorghum, deemed “unsightly” in urban areas, for flowers, vegetables, and other aesthetically pleasing plants.
Mayor John Bosco Nyemazi stressed that this isn’t an anti-farming initiative, but a call for urban-friendly crops. “We encourage cultivation, but with plants that enhance Kayonza’s image,” he stated.
While some residents welcome the change, others worry about the impact on small landowners who rely on traditional crops for their livelihood. The District insists alternative land arrangements will be explored to address these concerns.
The beautification drive extends beyond flora. Residents are urged to tidy backyards, plant ornamental trees, and illuminate their homes at dusk. Vacant plots are also targeted, with owners encouraged to develop them according to the city’s vision.
Kayonza’s makeover aims to attract investment and boost tourism, showcasing a vibrant and well-maintained urban center. Whether the shift in crops blooms into success remains to be seen, but one thing’s certain: Kayonza is putting on its Sunday best.
