Rwanda Unveils $9M Ecosystem Restoration Initiative to Strengthen Climate Resilience

Rwanda is stepping up its game in environmental sustainability with the Ecosystem-Based Restoration Approach for the Nyungwe–Ruhango Corridor Project. This initiative, backed by a $9 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), aims to revive degraded ecosystems while supporting agriculture and creating economic opportunities for communities in the Southern Province.

This project is part of a global initiative known as the GEF-8 Ecosystem Restoration Integrated Program (ERIP). It targets land degradation and climate adaptation through 20 projects worldwide. In Rwanda, the regional implementation will be led by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) in collaboration with Conservation International.

The Nyungwe–Ruhango Corridor is rich in biodiversity but also highly vulnerable to climate change. The project will help restore the land and mitigate risks from natural disasters like floods and landslides that impact livelihoods and food security.

Benefits for the Community

The GEF-8 project promises significant environmental and social benefits:

• It aims to restore 2,162 hectares of forests and wetlands.
• It will promote sustainable farming practices on nearly 9,000 hectares of land.
• Over 289,000 people are expected to benefit from climate-smart projects and income-generating activities.
• It aims to create around 2,200 green jobs, particularly for women and youth.

Tuuli Bernardini, a Senior Environmental Specialist at the World Bank, emphasizes that these initiatives are not just good for the environment but also boost the economy. She underlines the importance of involving women and youth, ensuring that development is inclusive and sustainable.

Nature-Based Solutions

The project focuses on nature-based solutions. Activities will include:

• Replanting trees in deforested areas.
• Restoring wetlands to control flooding and improve water quality.
• Promoting agroforestry, integrating trees with crops to enhance productivity.
• Encouraging private sector involvement for sustainable forestry and land use.

These efforts aim to lessen the burden on overused natural resources while fostering livelihoods grounded in caring for the environment.

Harnessing Rwanda’s Success

Rwanda has a strong track record in restoration, backed by several World Bank-supported initiatives, such as:

• The Volcanoes Community Resilience Project.
• The Agricultural Transformation Project.
• The Landscape Approach to Forest Restoration and Conservation.

All of these efforts align with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation, which prioritizes sustainable land use and biodiversity.

A Model for Africa

The GEF-8 project could serve as a model for other African nations. Its holistic approach combines environmental restoration with social and economic benefits. The focus on partnerships and community-led actions enhances its replicability in regions facing similar challenges.

By balancing economic growth with ecological health, Rwanda is paving the way for resilient development that could inspire countries across Africa. The World Bank Group’s mission reflects this aim: to create more jobs while preserving essential natural systems. The success of this project could set the standard for sustainable practices in the years to come.

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