Rwanda and Algeria expressed interest in strengthening cooperation on environmental protection and climate action, with attention on reforestation, climate-smart agriculture, waste management and sustainable urban development.
The discussions brought together Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, Dr Bernadette Arakwiye, and Algeria’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Mohamed Mellah, as the two countries considered areas where their environmental priorities could be advanced jointly.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment said the two countries had “aligned on shared environmental priorities,” identifying reforestation, climate-smart agriculture, waste valorisation and sustainable cities among the areas discussed.
The talks opened opportunities for exchanging knowledge and experience in forest restoration, agricultural practices that can withstand changing climate conditions and ways of turning waste into useful products.
Sustainable cities were also part of the discussions, with both sides looking at approaches that can improve urban services while reducing environmental pressure and exposure to climate-related risks.
The areas discussed with Algeria closely reflect priorities already included in Rwanda’s wider climate strategy.
Rwanda’s latest Nationally Determined Contribution, known as NDC 3.0, covers agriculture, forestry, energy, waste and other sectors as the country works to reduce emissions and strengthen resilience to climate shocks. The plan targets a reduction of up to 53% in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 compared with a business-as-usual scenario.
Environment Minister Arakwiye has said Rwanda’s climate strategy is intended to combine lower emissions with stronger protection against the effects of climate change.
“Rwanda’s new Climate Action Plan reflects our determination to act decisively on climate change for people, our economy, and our planet,” she said when the updated plan was released.
Agriculture and forestry are among the sectors Rwanda has identified as having significant potential for reducing emissions, while adaptation measures include improved water management, wetland restoration, climate-resilient agriculture and better land use.
Waste management also forms part of Rwanda’s climate agenda, with national policy promoting reuse, recycling and other approaches aimed at reducing waste while limiting emissions.
Rwanda’s Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy also places sustainable land use, natural resource management and greener urban development among the areas considered important for building a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy.
The discussions with Algeria provided another opportunity for Rwanda to strengthen partnerships in areas already identified in its national climate plans, while allowing both countries to share experience in environmental protection and long-term climate resilience.
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