As Rwanda revises its $11 billion climate action plan, experts are pushing for the integration of a “Green Jobs Assessment Model” to ensure climate policies contribute to job creation—not job losses.
In January 2025, Rwanda began nationwide consultations to update its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)—the country’s climate commitments for reducing emissions and adapting to climate impacts, covering the period from 2021 to 2030. The Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) is leading the process, working with a broad range of stakeholders.
The 2015 Paris Agreement emphasizes the link between climate action, sustainable development, and just transitions—especially the importance of creating decent work. Rwanda plans to submit its revised NDCs to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) by the end of this year.
During COP29, held in Azerbaijan in November 2024, several countries—including Rwanda—presented updated climate goals.
François Murwanashyaka, National Project Coordinator for the UN PAGE initiative at the International Labour Organization (ILO), emphasized that Rwanda should integrate the Green Jobs Assessment Model in this update. The model helps policymakers analyze how green investments—like renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture—impact employment across sectors.
Murwanashyaka suggested that Rwanda’s National Institute of Statistics include the tool in its labor force surveys to monitor green job trends. He also mentioned ILO’s readiness to help collect current data on green employment to support policymaking.
David Ukwishaka from REMA stressed the need to align Rwanda’s climate plans with Vision 2050, the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), and the push for both local and international climate investments.
Fred Sabiti, a climate advisor at MINECOFIN and UNDP, highlighted that while Rwanda has many decent jobs, not all are environmentally sustainable. He emphasized making the transition inclusive, climate-resilient, and backed by green economic models.
Germaine Hirwa, Acting CEO of the Rwanda Cleaner Production and Climate Innovation Centre, called for institutional collaboration in achieving climate goals. She added that “going green doesn’t raise costs—it reduces them,” while also creating more space for green job growth.
Daniel Hakuzweyezu from the Rwandan Extractive Industry Workers Union (REWU), warned that without proper training in clean tech and well-thought-out policies, the green shift could cause job losses. He urged reforms in the education system to prepare workers with the green skills needed—and cautioned that poor planning may lead to resistance from communities.
Minister of Environment Valentine Uwamariya recognized the crucial role of development partners in hitting Rwanda’s climate targets. During the launch of the NDC revision process, she emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to a transparent and inclusive approach.
The revised NDCs—known as NDCs 3.0—will prioritize clear, actionable strategies to enhance climate resilience and unlock climate finance. Rwanda’s final submission to the UNFCCC will be a cornerstone of its long-term climate vision—driven by collaboration among government, civil society, and the private sector.
Alice DUSABIMANA / KIGALI TIMES