Rwanda is consulting local government authorities through RALGA to revise its climate action pledges, known as NDCs, aiming for submission to the UN by 2025. Although $4.5 billion has been secured for the 2020-2025 period, a gap of $6.5 billion remains for 2020-2030. Workshops are planned to ensure local input, enhance understanding, and align local needs with national climate strategies while promoting community engagement.
Local government authorities in Rwanda are actively participating in consultations led by the Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities (RALGA) to revise climate action pledges, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Rwanda aims to submit these updated pledges to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change by 2025. Financing mechanisms have been established, securing $4.5 billion for interventions during the 2020-2025 period, with an anticipated financing gap of $6.5 billion for 2020-2030.
NDCs are crucial components under the Paris Agreement, designed to mitigate global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, yet existing pledges do not sufficiently address the risks posed by climate change. RALGA has been instrumental in promoting the role of local governments in climate action, participating in international dialogues such as the Conferences of the Parties to the Paris Agreement. From March 11-12, 2025, RALGA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), will host a workshop to involve local stakeholders in developing Rwanda’s Climate Action Plan (NDC 3.0) for 2025-2030.
The goal of this workshop is to ensure local government contributions are integrated into the national climate plan, thus promoting inclusivity. Rwanda’s NDC 3.0 seeks to enhance climate action by aligning with national development objectives and working towards carbon neutrality by 2050. The workshop will also update participants on NDC components and methodologies for developing NDC 3.0, alongside discussions about financing modalities for climate initiatives.
RALGA Secretary General, Dominique Habimana, affirmed the necessity of empowering local governments to lead climate initiatives through active policy participation. He emphasized the importance of tailoring climate interventions to meet the distinct needs of local communities. In comments regarding climate finance, he highlighted the progress made but acknowledged the need for further efforts to secure adequate funding.
Rwanda’s Green Fund finances environmentally friendly projects; Emilie Uwase, a Climate Finance Analyst, noted the focus on capacity building for public and local institutions to optimize project success. Furthermore, Beatrice Cyiza, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, stressed the importance of local governments understanding climate plans to effectively mobilize funding.
During discussions, Faustin Munyazikwiye from REMA advocated for tailored inclusiveness in NDC planning, addressing the unique challenges faced by specific districts. He pinpointed diverse climatic issues across provinces requiring specific interventions to enhance resilience while reducing greenhouse gas emissions in sectors such as transport and agriculture.
Participants shared insights on citizen engagement, identifying it as vital for the success of NDCs. Local officials, including Vice Mayor Jean Marie Rusilibana, emphasized the need for active community involvement in climate action, with plans for clear communication aimed at raising awareness about project benefits. This sentiment was echoed by others advocating for simplified communication strategies to engage the populace effectively in climate initiatives.
In summary, Rwanda’s local government authorities are crucial in revising the country’s climate action pledges to ensure they are comprehensive and inclusive. The collaborative efforts via RALGA, including consultations and workshops, aim to integrate local perspectives into the NDC process while advocating for necessary financing. As Rwanda moves toward its 2025 submission and aims for carbon neutrality by 2050, building local capacity and citizen engagement remains paramount in achieving effective climate action.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
