Rwanda has launched a new initiative to strengthen climate resilience, disaster risk reduction and sustainable resource management, in partnership with the Government of Japan and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The project builds on ongoing efforts to protect communities from climate related shocks while promoting practical, locally driven solutions that reduce vulnerability and support long-term resilience.

Launched in Kigali on 31 March 2026, the initiative comes at a time when Rwanda continues to face growing climate-related risks, particularly floods, landslides, storms and other hydro-meteorological hazards that threaten lives, livelihoods and critical services. The project will contribute to strengthening national and local systems for preparedness, prevention and response, while also supporting climate mobility solutions and sustainable energy access.

Speaking at the launch, Niyotwambaza H. Christine, Director General for Surveillance and Preparedness, said the initiative reflects Rwanda’s practical and forward-looking approach to disaster resilience.

Niyotwambaza H. Christine, Director General for Surveillance and Preparedness at the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA), delivers opening remarks during the launch.

“Rwanda faces increasing climate related disasters, mostly caused by hydro-meteorological hazards including floods, landslides, and storms. These hazards threaten lives, disrupt livelihoods, public services, and often leading to displacement and humanitarian needs,” she said. “As we move forward, our priority remains clear: to scale up proven solutions, strengthen coordination across institutions, and empower local communities who are at the forefront of disaster preparedness and response.”

Christine noted that beyond sudden onset disasters, Rwanda is also experiencing slow-onset environmental pressures such as soil erosion, land degradation and declining agricultural productivity, which continue to reshape livelihoods and mobility patterns in different parts of the country. She emphasized that responding to these challenges requires integrated action that links disaster risk management, environmental protection and sustainable development planning.

The initiative builds on achievements already realized through the partnership between Rwanda, Japan and IOM since 2024. These include strengthening early warning systems, developing standardized procedures for evacuation site management, installing lightning protection systems, and supporting local innovation and academic collaboration for the production of affordable lightning protection solutions.

According to the project presentation shared during the launch, interventions will also focus on communities in climate-vulnerable areas across the country, including districts exposed to landslides, flooding, drought, soil erosion and land degradation. The selected areas include parts of Rutsiro, Gakenke, Rubavu, Musanze, Kayonza and Nyamagabe districts, where climate impacts have also been linked to mobility pressures and displacement risks.

The new project is expected to reinforce national systems while advancing local innovation in disaster preparedness, environmental resilience and access to sustainable solutions that can help communities adapt to climate stressors. It also aligns with Rwanda’s broader commitment to placing resilience at the center of development planning and safeguarding progress against climate shocks.

Christine expressed appreciation to the Government of Japan and IOM for their continued partnership and support, noting that sustained collaboration remains essential to protecting lives, preserving development gains and building a safer and more resilient Rwanda for future generations.