Rwanda and Algeria are looking to deepen cooperation on environmental protection and climate change, with discussions focusing on forests, climate-smart agriculture, waste management and sustainable urban development.
The areas were highlighted during talks between Rwanda’s Environment Minister, Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye, and Algeria’s ambassador to Rwanda, Mohamed Mellah.
The two sides said their countries share priorities in protecting natural resources and developing responses to climate change.
They identified forest conservation and restoration, climate-smart agriculture and turning waste into useful products as areas where Rwanda and Algeria could exchange knowledge, technology and experience.
Sustainable cities were also discussed, with both countries interested in urban development that improves services for residents while reducing environmental pressures and climate-related risks.
The proposed cooperation comes as Rwanda continues to pursue measures aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions while strengthening the country’s ability to cope with climate impacts.
Its climate policy framework includes the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy and the National Environment and Climate Change Policy.
Adaptation measures include restoring and protecting wetlands, improving water storage and use, and protecting watersheds. The measures are intended to help reduce the effects of droughts and floods.
On mitigation, Rwanda is promoting renewable energy, improving energy efficiency and seeking to reduce dependence on activities and equipment that produce high levels of greenhouse gas emissions, including industrial and transport sources.
Waste management is also part of the country’s climate response. Rwanda’s environmental policy promotes a circular economy in which waste and used materials can be reused or turned into new products rather than simply discarded.
The discussions with Algeria could provide a platform for further technical cooperation as both countries seek practical approaches to environmental protection and climate resilience.
