Gicumbi, Rwanda, after six remarkable years, the Green Gicumbi Project has officially come to a close, leaving behind transformed landscapes, empowered communities, and a powerful blueprint for climate resilience across Rwanda.
Funded by the Green Climate Fund and implemented by the Rwanda Green Fund at a cost of USD 32 million, the project has directly benefited more than 158,000 people with women making up over half of the beneficiaries while indirectly touching the lives of over 464,000 citizens in nine sectors of Gicumbi district.
Through integrated efforts in watershed protection, climate-smart agriculture, sustainable forestry, clean energy access, and resilient housing, the initiative has strengthened local capacity to withstand floods, landslides, droughts, and other climate threats while boosting livelihoods and restoring ecosystems.
Speaking at the closure ceremony, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye, praised the project’s significance:
“Green Gicumbi Project reflects Rwanda’s bold vision of climate-resilient development where environmental protection, community resilience, and sustainable economic transformation go hand in hand. The achievements realized in Gicumbi provide a strong foundation and model for scaling up integrated climate solutions across the country.”
Teddy Mugabo, CEO of the Rwanda Green Fund, highlighted the transformative power of targeted climate finance:
“Green Gicumbi has demonstrated how catalytic climate finance can translate national climate ambition into tangible, community-level impact. Through strategic investments in resilient infrastructure, ecosystem restoration, clean energy, and climate-smart livelihoods, the project has not only strengthened resilience but also created a scalable model for green growth.”
Local leaders echoed this optimism. northern province governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde affirmed:
“The impact of Green Gicumbi is visible across our communities, landscapes, and local economies. We are committed to safeguarding these achievements and ensuring that the lessons and innovations continue to guide sustainable development efforts.”
Gicumbi district mayor Emmanuel Nzabonimpa, captured the human dimension:“For the people of Gicumbi, Green Gicumbi has not only restored degraded ecosystems but also restored hope, dignity, and resilience. Communities now have stronger capacities to adapt to climate shocks while pursuing sustainable livelihoods.”
During his speech, Minister Dominique Habimana the guest of honor, emphasized that the achievements of the Green Gicumbi Project clearly demonstrate the vital role environmental protection plays in fostering citizens’ development and strengthening their resilience to climate change.He declared:
“We call upon all citizens to continue preserving the achievements of the Green Gicumbi Project. The planted forests, the constructed terraces, and the newly built homes must be properly maintained. The end of the project does not mean the end of the activities.”
As Rwanda continues its journey toward a greener, more resilient future, the Green Gicumbi Project stands as an inspiring testament to what is possible when vision, partnership, and community-centered action converge.
Naomi Irakoze Mugaragu.