Rwanda Commits to Restore 76% of Degraded Land and Forests to Protect Nile River Basin

By Elias HAKIZIMANA.

As Environment Week was launched, the Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, announced that Rwanda has set a target to restore 76% of degraded land and forests by the year 2030.

This initiative is crucial for the protection of the Nile River Basin, which is significantly impacted by the rivers originating in Rwanda.

During the monthly community work, “Umuganda,” which united the districts of Nyamagabe, Karongi, and Ruhango, Dr. Mujawamariya highlighted the importance of this environmental effort.

The Umuganda event took place at the confluence of the Mbirurume and Mwogo rivers, key tributaries of the Nyabarongo River that feeds into the Nile River.

“By 2030, we aim to have restored forests and rehabilitated two million hectares of degraded land, which is 76% of the country’s area. This is not just about Rwanda; it’s about protecting the vital water resources of the Nile River Basin.” Dr. Mujawamariya emphasized.

She also noted Rwanda’s achievements over the past 30 years, including the restoration of 30.4% of the country’s land area and the planting of over 70,000 hectares of forests in biodiversity reserves.

“We have restored the Rugezi marshland, Mukura National Park, and Gishwati National Park, this effort demonstrates our commitment to environmental conservation,” she said.

Dr. Mujawamariya urged those involved in mining and sand quarrying to conduct their activities responsibly. “Those who extract minerals and sand must do so

while safeguarding our environment, as their activities directly affect our rivers and, consequently, the Nile Basin,” she stressed.

She also called on the residents living near the Mwogo and Mbirurume rivers to take good care of these water bodies.

“These rivers contribute to the Nyabarongo River, which is essential for the Nile Basin. Protecting these rivers means protecting the Nile,” Dr. Mujawamariya said.

Donath Ngayaberura from Musange sector in Nyamagabe district expressed satisfaction with the tree planting and trench digging on the slopes adjacent to these rivers.

He explained that during the rainy season, soil erosion used to wash away crops and land into the Nyabarongo River, impacting the Nile. “The government’s efforts to plant bamboo and dig anti-erosion trenches are vital for preserving our land and water,” he said.

Etienne Nshimyimana, another citizen highlighted the issue of soil and stones from surrounding hills ending up in the water, splitting the river into parts.

“The measures taken by the government will ensure that the river water does not dry up because there will be no more erosion falling into it,” he noted.

Dr. Mujawamariya acknowledged the broader impact of Rwanda’s environmental policies.

“Other achievements of Rwanda in the past 30 years, such as banning plastic bags and products and enacting environmental protection laws, showcase our commitment. The theme of this Environment Week, ‘Restoring Degraded Land, Enhancing Resilience Against Desertification and Drought,’ reflects our dedication to sustainable development,” she stated.

The Government of Rwanda, through the restoration of land and forests, not only aims to improve its local environment but also takes a leading role in safeguarding the Nile River Basin, ensuring the sustainability of vital water resources for millions of people across multiple countries downstream.

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