Rwanda has committed to reduce 38% in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and increase financing for climate resilience projects as well as creation of thousands of green jobs.
The commitment was made by President Paul Kagame at the ongoing online International Climate Adaptation Summit (CAS) 2021 hosted by the Netherlands.
The summit convenes global leaders and local stakeholders where a comprehensive Adaptation Action Agenda that sets out clear commitments to deliver concrete new endeavours and partnerships to make our world more resilient to the effects of climate change will be launched.
“We are working to preserve forests through public-private partnerships for forest management, together with investment partners,” Kagame said. “Investment in climate adaptation strengthens our societies for future growth and prosperity.”
The President said that as the world works to slow the pace of climate change, “we must also work to mitigate its effects.” “Climate change, after all is a fact, which calls for social and economic resilience to protect livelihoods.”
In Rwanda, he said, the changing climate is already making itself felt in unusually heavy rainfall and flooding.
Changing weather patterns also affect agriculture. “We are responding by investing in water resources management, for example restoring catchment areas and wetlands.”
Last year, Rwanda established the Rwanda Water Resources Board to ensure integrated, long-term planning around water, irrigation, and climate, joining other efforts such as the Rwanda Green Fund that catalyses financing for climate resilience projects.
At the United Nations Climate Action Summit 2019, global leaders endorsed a call for action advocating a vision that puts climate adaptation at the center of decision making, and gives impact response and building resilience for the future “equal and increased urgency.”
This call for action resonates the message of the Global Commission on Adaptation and warns that, while the true costs of adaptation in developing countries could amount to US$300B per year by 2030, there are “substantial benefits to be gained from acting now.”
“Let’s make adaptation a priority for 2021 and beyond,” Kagame insisted.
The Netherlands government is a strong supporter of Rwanda’s efforts, particularly with new technologies.
“I thank Prime Minister Mark Rutte and the Netherlands Government for spearheading this initiative, which helps set the stage for COP-26 later this year,” Kagame noted.
