Rwanda Engages Local Governments to Enhance Climate Action Plans

Local governments in Rwanda are revising their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) with consultation from RALGA, preparing for a submission to the UN by 2025. Significant funding of $4.5 billion has been secured for NDC implementations, though a $6.5 billion gap remains for 2020-2030. Key priorities include enhancing community engagement and addressing region-specific climate challenges.

Local government authorities in Rwanda, represented by the Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities (RALGA), are actively involved in updating the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to address climate change. Rwanda’s revised climate pledges are due to be submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change by 2025. Currently, financing of $4.5 billion has been secured for NDC implementation from 2020 to 2025, although a significant funding gap of $6.5 billion is projected for the 2020–2030 period.

NDCs aim to mitigate climate change impacts under the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. However, Rwanda’s current contributions are inadequate to meet these ambitious targets. To address this, RALGA is advocating for greater involvement in climate action discussions, emphasizing the importance of local governments. A consultative workshop was held on March 11-12, 2025, facilitating input for Rwanda’s third Climate Action Plan (NDC 3.0) for 2025-2030, ensuring local perspectives are integrated.

The NDC 3.0 aims to enhance climate action through the incorporation of climate priorities into national development frameworks, promoting resilience, and ensuring alignment with the Paris Agreement. The workshop focused on increasing the understanding of NDCs among local officials, validating interventions, and discussing financing strategies. Training aimed at equipping district and City of Kigali officials with knowledge regarding climate agreements and financing methodologies.

Dominique Habimana, the RALGA Secretary General, stated the crucial role of local governments in achieving Rwanda’s climate objectives. He emphasized the need to empower local authorities to lead climate actions effectively, tailoring initiatives to local community needs. Habimana highlighted that while some local governments are beginning to benefit from climate finance, more resources must be directed to the local level to ensure comprehensive climate action.

Rwanda has established the Rwanda Green Fund to finance sustainable projects. Emilie Uwase, Climate Finance Analyst, explained that local governments can access this fund by designing viable green projects, with a focus on capacity-building for effective project execution. Beatrice Cyiza, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, reinforced the necessity for local governments to understand and participate in climate action planning to effectively raise climate financing.

During a panel discussion on NDC implementation roles, REMA’s Faustin Munyazikwiye underscored the need for awareness, capacity-building, and ownership in the climate action framework. He pointed out the varying climatic challenges faced by districts, such as drought in Southern Province and floods in Northern Province, necessitating tailored interventions. Védaste Nshimiyimana, Executive Secretary of Southern Province, advocated prioritizing drought-prone districts like Ruhango and Nyanza in NDC strategies.

The impact of climate change on Rwanda’s socio-economic infrastructure is profound, costing the nation an estimated 5 to 7 percent of its GDP annually. Climate-induced disasters threaten essential public resources, and predictions indicate increased rainfall variability until 2030. Engaging citizens in the implementation of NDCs is critical, as emphasized by Ruhango District’s Vice Mayor, Jean Marie Rusilibana. The importance of community participation in realizing NDC goals was highlighted by local officials who called for simplified communication strategies to raise public awareness regarding climate actions.

In summary, local governments in Rwanda, through RALGA, are significantly contributing to the development of the country’s updated climate action plans. With substantial funding already secured for initial NDC initiatives, it remains imperative to close existing financial gaps to achieve the ambitious goals set under the Paris Agreement. The engagement of local authorities, community involvement, and targeted priorities based on regional climatic challenges are vital for effective climate resilience and sustainable development in Rwanda. Ultimately, empowering local entities and integrating their insights will strengthen the nation’s overall climate response strategy.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw