Rwanda Cabinet approved two draft laws that tighten environmental protections and widen the Rwanda Green Fund’s role in financing green projects, including new climate finance rules and measures to attract more private capital.
The proposed Environment and Climate Change law strengthens rules on pollution and waste management.
It also introduces clearer safeguards for gas extraction and other mining activities, with provisions aimed at protecting communities and limiting environmental damage
The bills also sets rules for climate finance, including Rwanda’s national carbon market.
Rwanda launched its National Carbon Market Framework in 2023 to regulate carbon-credit trading and guide the country’s participation in international carbon markets.
The Ministry of Environment later introduced a fee structure for carbon-market services in January 2026.
The second bill expands the mandate of the Rwanda Green Fund in green investment, sustainable finance and support for businesses working on climate-related projects.
Under the proposed changes, the Fund will be able to use a wider range of financing instruments and provide advisory services to projects seeking green finance.
A dedicated investment arm will also be created to structure investments and mobilise private capital for green and climate-aligned projects.
The Rwanda Green Fund has already been moving beyond grant financing. Its 2024-2030 strategy includes blended finance, equity investments and fund-of-funds models, with a target of mobilising $1.7 billion by 2030.
The two bills will proceed through the remaining legislative process before they can take effect.
Elie GATETE
RADIOTV10