Rwanda is revising its climate action pledges through local government consultations, aiming to submit updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2025. With $4.5 billion secured for 2020-2025 implementation, a $6.5 billion gap remains for 2020-2030. RALGA’s workshops emphasize local perspectives, community engagement, and essential financing for effective climate action as the country targets carbon neutrality by 2050.
Local government authorities in Rwanda, represented by the Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities (RALGA), are actively involved in revising the nation’s climate action pledges, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The country aims to submit these updated pledges to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change by 2025. Currently, Rwanda has secured $4.5 billion for the 2020-2025 NDC implementation, though a financing gap of $6.5 billion remains for the 2020-2030 period.
The NDCs are pivotal under the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. They encapsulate each country’s commitment to reducing emissions and adapting to climate change impacts. Despite the current pledges, there is a recognition that they are insufficient to prevent severe climate impacts.
In March 2025, RALGA, along with the Ministry of Environment and partners, hosted a two-day workshop to inform local stakeholders about the third generation of Rwanda’s Climate Action Plan (NDC 3.0). This consultation aims to integrate local government perspectives into national plans, ensuring a comprehensive approach to climate action.
Rwanda’s NDC 3.0 seeks to incorporate climate priorities into national development strategies, enhance resilience, secure financing, and align actions with the Paris Agreement, ultimately supporting the country’s carbon neutrality goal by 2050. During the workshop, participants reviewed past identified interventions and discussed financing strategies for effective execution.
Dominique Habimana, RALGA Secretary General, emphasized the crucial role of local governments in achieving Rwanda’s climate goals. He advocated for empowering local authorities to lead climate action, asserting the importance of tailored interventions to meet local community needs. Habimana also highlighted the necessity of transferring skills and resources to the implementation levels.
The Rwanda Green Fund, established to finance green initiatives, encourages public and local government institutions to design effective green projects. Emilie Uwase from the fund noted the importance of capacity-building for impactful project implementation.
Beatrice Cyiza, from the Ministry of Environment, emphasized local governments’ critical role in climate action plan preparation to mobilize financing. During discussions, Faustin Munyazikwiye of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority highlighted the need for awareness and ownership among local leaders regarding climate action priorities.
Districts have unique needs; for instance, eastern districts require solar-powered solutions for drought resistance, while western areas need infrastructure against floods. Védaste Nshimiyimana pointed out drought risks in Southern Province, particularly in Ruhango and Nyanza, which necessitate prioritized irrigation interventions.
Rwanda is vulnerable to climate change effects, particularly due to its reliance on rain-fed agriculture. The Country Climate and Development Report indicates that climate change can cost Rwanda 5-7% of its GDP annually. The expectation of increased rainfall variability underscores the urgency of robust climate strategies.
Engagement with local communities in NDC implementation is essential. Officials like Ruhango District’s Vice Mayor highlighted the importance of community involvement, noting the need for clarity around the benefits of NDCs. Other officials stressed the necessity of integrating climate action into Kigali’s master plan and raising public awareness through simplified communication.
Overall, the involvement of local governments, community engagement, and targeted financing are fundamental avenues for Rwanda to enhance its climate action strategies and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Rwanda’s commitment to updating its climate action pledges underscores the significant role of local governments in the climate agenda. Through workshops and consultations, RALGA is ensuring local perspectives are integrated into the national strategy. The estimated gaps in financing highlight the ongoing challenges, yet initiatives like the Rwanda Green Fund aim to bridge these gaps. Robust community engagement is crucial for effective implementation of climate actions and achieving national climate goals.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
