Rwanda’s lush forests, once celebrated as critical ecological and economic resources, are under increasing threat due to deforestation and forest degradation. These forests are not just environmental havens; they are lifelines for countless Rwandans who depend on them for fuel, food, water, and income. As forests shrink, the ripple effects on people’s livelihoods are devastating, threatening food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. The Scale of Forest Degradation According to the Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA), the country loses approximately 10,000 hectares of forest annually due to agricultural expansion, illegal logging,…
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The Kitchen Garden Revolution: How Home-Grown Produce is Improving Health and Sustainability in Rwanda
In Rwanda, the rise of kitchen gardens small, household gardens filled with fruits, vegetables, and herbs has become a powerful movement toward food security, healthier diets, and sustainable living. Amid rising food prices and the challenges of climate change, kitchen gardens offer families a reliable source of fresh, organic produce right at their doorsteps. This article explores the diverse benefits of kitchen gardens, sharing testimonies from Rwandans who have embraced this practice to improve their lives and communities. Improved Nutrition and Health: Kitchen gardens provide a direct source of nutrient-rich…
SOMA INKURUPresident Kagame Attends COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan to Address Climate Change and Environmental Challenges
On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, President Paul Kagame arrived in Baku, Azerbaijan, to join global leaders at the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29). During the conference, President Kagame is expected to engage in discussions on international relations, with talks anticipated with various world leaders, including Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, who is hosting this year’s COP29 event. The COP conference, which brings together parties to discuss global climate change, will focus on urgent solutions to mitigate the severe effects of global warming. The goal is to speed up efforts…
SOMA INKURUThe Impact of Climate Change on Women in Agriculture in Rwanda: Voices from the Ground
Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a small East African country renowned for its lush landscapes and agricultural productivity. However, with the intensification of climate change, women who rely on agriculture for their livelihoods are facing unprecedented challenges. In a country where over 70% of the population depends on farming, the effects of climate change are particularly harsh on women, who are both primary food producers and key economic actors in the agricultural sector. The Strain of Unpredictable Weather Climate change in Rwanda manifests through erratic…
SOMA INKURURwanda Begins Tackling RWF 400 Billion Loss Due to Disasters
Through the Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA), the Rwandan government has initiated efforts to address and mitigate the impact of natural disasters in order to prevent and minimize the losses they cause. Disasters are not unique to Rwanda; global data from the UNDRR’s Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters shows that 399 major disasters occurred in 2023, including earthquakes, floods, fires, droughts, extreme heat, storms, and more, significantly affecting populations worldwide. These disasters claimed over 86,000 lives, impacted over 93 million people, and resulted in economic losses of…
SOMA INKURUAmakuru kuri Parike y’Ibirunga, uko yabayeho n’inyamaswa zibonekamo
Parike y’Ibirunga yashinzwe mu mwaka w’i 1925 ikaba iri mu za mbere muri Afurika, Mu mwaka wa 1929 iyo pariki yongerewe ubunini kuko yahise ifata ubutaka bw’ u Rwanda ndetse na Congo Mbiligi ariyo Repuburika Iharanira Demokarasi ya Kongo kuri ubu. Icyo gihe iyi pariki yahise igira ubuso bungana na 8090 km², ibyo byakozwe mu rwego rwo kuyihinduramo ‘Parc Albert’ yacungwaga n’abakoloni b’ababiligi dore ko ari nabo bakoronizaga ibyo bihugu byombi. Nyuma y’uko Congo ibonye ubwingenge mu 1960 ndetse n’u Rwanda mu 1962, Pariki y’Ibirunga yahise icikamo ibice bibiri, buri…
SOMA INKURULiving with Contaminated Waters: The Struggle of Rural Communities in Rwanda
In the rolling hills of rural Rwanda, water is life. It sustains families, nourishes crops, and supports livestock. But for many communities, access to safe, clean water is becoming a distant memory, as pollution from nearby industries and agriculture taints their lifeline. This is the story of those affected and their calls for change. The Source of the Problem In many parts of rural Rwanda, rivers and streams are the main sources of water. However, industrial waste and agricultural runoff have found their way into these natural resources, contaminating the…
SOMA INKURUThe Fascinating Life of Gorillas: Insights into the World’s Largest Primates
Gorillas, the largest of the primates, are among the most captivating and majestic creatures in the animal kingdom. Found primarily in the rainforests of Central Africa, these gentle giants live complex lives that offer profound insights into the natural world. Understanding gorilla life not only enhances our appreciation of these incredible animals but also underscores the importance of their conservation. Habitat and Social Structure Gorillas inhabit the dense rainforests of Africa, with two primary species—the Eastern Gorilla and the Western Gorilla. Eastern Gorillas are further divided into the Mountain Gorilla…
SOMA INKURUThe Impact of Climate Change on Potato Farming in Rwanda
Climate change, one of the significant challenges facing the world, has profound effects on agriculture globally, and Rwanda is not exempt from these impacts, particularly on potato farming, a crucial crop in the country. Potato Damage Due to Climate Change Climate change, including rising temperatures, unusual rainfall, and natural disasters such as floods or droughts, severely affects potato farming. These changes disrupt the growing season, making it challenging for farmers to plan the timing of planting and harvesting. Extreme temperatures can prevent potatoes from growing properly, leading to reduced yields.…
SOMA INKURURwanda’s Green Economy: Paving the Way for Sustainable Development
Rwanda is rapidly emerging as a leader in the green economy, embracing sustainable development practices to address climate change and promote economic growth. As a small, landlocked country with limited natural resources, Rwanda recognizes the importance of balancing economic progress with environmental stewardship. The government has prioritized a green economy approach as outlined in its Vision 2050 strategy, which aims to transform Rwanda into a climate-resilient, low-carbon economy. This strategy includes investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly infrastructure. For example, Rwanda is expanding its use of solar and…
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