In an ambitious move to combat climate change and restore its ecosystems, Rwanda has launched a series of multi-billion-dollar projects aimed at reforestation, land restoration, and reducing carbon emissions. These projects, which span across various provinces, are part of Rwanda’s broader commitment to restoring two million hectares of degraded land by 2030 and cutting carbon emissions by 38% within the same timeframe. As the nation gears up to meet these bold environmental goals, these green initiatives are seen as crucial steps toward building climate resilience, safeguarding biodiversity, and enhancing sustainable development.
$18 Million Forest Restoration Project in Southern and Northern Provinces
In May 2024, Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment launched an $18 million (approximately Rwf24 billion) initiative to restore forests and rehabilitate degraded land in Southern Province and Gakenke in Northern Province. This project includes planting agroforestry trees, including fruit-bearing species, across 80,000 hectares and implementing soil erosion control measures over 1,000 hectares through terracing. Nearly 10,000 improved cookstoves will be distributed to farming households, reducing reliance on firewood and alleviating pressure on the forests.
The project, funded by the African Development Bank (AFDB), is designed to create jobs and empower local communities, with a particular focus on women and youth. Success will rely heavily on collaboration among the Ministry of Environment, Rwanda Forestry Authority, Ministry of Agriculture, and district authorities.
Congo-Nile Divide Restoration Project
Rwanda has also embarked on a $50 million (approximately Rwf68 billion) project aimed at restoring the Congo-Nile Divide, a critical watershed that separates the Congo and Nile river basins. The initiative, which spans 10 districts in Rwanda’s Western, Northern, and Southern provinces, will cover 250,000 hectares for forest restoration and expand agroforestry over an additional 2,000 hectares.
The project will directly benefit approximately 1.2 million people, with 654,404 women among those positively impacted. It is expected to create over 24,000 jobs in forest-dependent communities. This restoration effort is key to Rwanda’s broader strategy to combat deforestation, erosion, and enhance climate resilience in the region.
$31 Million Investment in Kaduha-Gitwe Forest Corridor
A $31 million (approximately Rwf42 billion) investment was approved by the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) in June 2024 to support sustainable forest management in the Kaduha-Gitwe corridor. The funds will enhance forest productivity, restore wetlands, and introduce income-generating activities for local communities, focusing on climate-resilient livelihoods. The project spans sectors in Nyamagabe, Ruhango, and Nyanza districts.
Lake Kivu Islands Restoration and Flood Prevention Projects
Two islands in Lake Kivu, Shyute and Kamiko, will soon undergo ecological restoration with the planting of 156,000 trees, including native species, as part of Rwanda’s efforts to tap into the carbon market. The Biodiversity Conservation Organization (BIOCOOR) is collaborating with the government to restore these islands, contributing to both biodiversity conservation and carbon offset strategies.
Meanwhile, a $3 million (approximately Rwf4 billion) project aimed at reducing flooding and landslides in the Rusizi River and Lake Kivu basins was launched in 2024. The initiative will cover Karongi and Rusizi districts, where over 72% of land is at high risk of erosion. It aims to safeguard both the environment and the livelihoods of the communities that depend on these vital water systems.
Nyungwe Agroforestry Project and Mukungwa River Restoration
The Nyungwe Agroforestry Project, a 20-year initiative, will positively impact 13,000 hectares of farmland, involving 23,000 smallholder farmers along the eastern border of Nyungwe National Park. This project will also help mitigate climate change by planting trees that store carbon and is set to earn carbon credits under the Gold Standard certification.
Additionally, a $300 million initiative is underway to curb flooding and erosion along the Mukungwa River, a tributary of the Nyabarongo River. The restoration of land surrounding this river will protect vital ecosystems and improve the region’s overall resilience to climate change.
Kigali Wetlands Rehabilitation and Green City Project
As part of urban environmental sustainability, Rwanda has launched a $27 million project to rehabilitate five key wetlands in Kigali. This four-year initiative aims to reduce flood risks, improve water quality, and enhance the city’s urban landscape, creating new recreational spaces for residents.
Kigali’s transformation into a climate-resilient, green city is also supported by the Green City Kigali project, which received $28 million in funding from the Green Climate Fund. Over the next five years, Kigali will be developed as a model of sustainable urban growth, showcasing Rwanda’s commitment to both environmental and economic resilience.
Rwanda Sets the Pace for Climate Action in Africa
These ambitious environmental initiatives demonstrate Rwanda’s proactive stance in addressing climate change and ensuring the sustainability of its natural resources. With millions invested in land restoration, reforestation, and urban sustainability, the country is not only on track to meet its 2030 environmental goals but is also positioning itself as a regional leader in climate resilience. The collaborative approach between the government, international organizations, and local communities will be key to the long-term success of these projects, and the benefits are expected to extend well beyond Rwanda, contributing to the global fight against climate change.