The Government of Rwanda has officially launched the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) 2025-2030, which serves as an important milestone in the protection of biodiversity inherent in the country, while complementing the country's sustainable development goals.
The event took place on Tuesday of the 7th of October, as a culmination of activities during the second day of the ISO Conference in Kigali. The strategy is matched with the global commitments under the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity, signed in Rio de Janeiro.
Environment Minister Honorable Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye said that the strategy was indeed a major step in protecting rich ecosystems in Rwanda. "The global cost of biodiversity loss is estimated to be $10 trillion a year. This should be a very serious warning. Declining biodiversity threatens food security, water access, and human health," she proclaimed.
Dr. Arakwiye explained that conserving biodiversity is not just for nature but also for the well-being of humans and their future generations. "We can develop the nation while at the same time protecting biodiversity; let us respect and safeguard our environment," she added.
According to Juliet Kabera, Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), the strategy is a culmination of 30 years of conservation efforts, including reforesting, wildlife protection, and various sustainable development projects.
This five-year program aims to raise over $300 million for environmental protection and green business initiatives, focusing on enhancing biodiversity. It also complements Vision 2050 and the Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy, part of the government's Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).
This program places Rwanda firmly on track towards a sustainable, nature-positive, and climate-resilient future, positioning it as the regional leader in biodiversity conservation.
Written By Jean Bernard MUKUNDENTE