Development organizations must help reduce risks for private investors and strengthen innovation systems to support sustainable agroforestry. This was the key point Dr. Brigitte Nyirambangutse, Sustainable Landscapes Lead at both the Global Green Growth Institute Rwanda and the Global Green Growth Institute Africa, delivered during a panel discussion on the topic "Private Sector and Innovation in Agroforestry" at the present World Congress on Agroforestry (#WCA2025).
Dr. Brigitte emphasized that collaboration among governments, businesses, and development partners is essential to foster inclusive and resilient agroforestry enterprises. She elaborated on the ways in which GGGI is partnering with countries and Member States to foster sustainable agroforestry through innovative financing mechanisms and partnerships.
She outlined how the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) is supporting partner countries through innovative financing and partnerships, including:
GGGI Innovation Fund launched in 2018 across the Pacific and Caribbean and now expanding into Africa (Uganda and Côte d’Ivoire etc.), this fund drives local innovation and sustainable solutions.
Global Trust Fund supported by the Government of Luxembourg, it helps countries issue Sustainability-Linked Bonds, thematic bonds, and explore debt-for-nature swaps.
Carbon Transaction Facility strengthens institutional readiness for international carbon markets and supports carbon buyers engaging in mitigation activities.
Payment for Ecosystem Services – currently under development in Rwanda, this initiative focuses on farmers’ needs, promoting conservation agriculture and agroforestry practices that continuously deliver ecosystem services, to ensure both productivity and sustainability.
Dr Brigitte underscored that real impact happens when every stakeholder is connected, working together to transform ideas into bankable green projects that attract green investment across member countries.
Written: Jean Bernard MUKUNDENTE