Today, Rwanda joins the global community in celebrating International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, held under the theme “40 Years of the Vienna Convention: From Science to Global Action.” The commemoration reflects on four decades of international cooperation to protect the ozone layer and looks ahead to sustaining progress for future generations.

The Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, adopted in 1985, and its Montreal Protocol of 1987, are regarded as the most successful environmental treaties in history. Together, they created a framework for nations to work collectively in phasing out Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS) such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons, which were damaging the earth’s protective shield against harmful ultraviolet radiation.

These agreements have led to the near elimination of ODS, preventing millions of cases of skin cancer, eye cataracts, and crop losses worldwide. The treaties are widely recognised as evidence that science-based policymaking and multilateral action can reverse environmental damage. The year 2025 marks a special milestone, the 40th anniversary of the Vienna Convention, offering a moment to celebrate achievements and recommit to future action.

Rwanda is an active Party to the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol, including the Kigali Amendment, and has made significant progress in phasing out ODS, climate warming gases and advancing sustainable cooling. Through the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), the country is implementing multiple programmes supported by the Protocol’s Multilateral Fund and international partners.

“Our progress under the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment shows that environmental challenges can be solved when nations act together with determination and science as their guide. Looking ahead, we remain committed to promoting sustainable cooling solutions, building regional capacity through ACES, and ensuring that every Rwandan benefits from a healthier environment and a safer future,” said Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye, Minister of Environment.

In line with the goals of the Kigali Amendment, Rwanda is advancing sustainable cooling through the Rwanda Cooling Initiative (R-COOL), supported by the Green Climate Fund, and enabled by the African Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold Chain (ACES) in Kigali, which serves as a regional hub for training, innovation, and technology transfer. 

At the policy level, Rwanda has introduced a licensing and quota system, a digital ozone information platform, and strict monitoring of imports and exports of controlled substances. In parallel, capacity building has been a priority, with over 500 customs officers and 400 refrigeration and air conditioning technicians trained to enforce controls and promote safe, climate-friendly alternatives. 

“The Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocol have taught us that when science and commitment come together, global challenges can be overcome. Rwanda is proud to have contributed to this progress through strong policy, innovation, and regional leadership. But protecting the ozone layer and our climate is not the work of governments alone. Every choice we make, from the appliances we use to the energy we consume, matters," Juliet Kabera, Director General, REMA.

As part of this year’s celebrations, Rwanda organised a range of activities to mark both Clean Air Day and International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer to engage citizens, raise awareness, and strengthen emissions reduction measures, including:

• September 8–10: Inspection of high emitting factories across Kigali, Bugesera, Rwamagana, and Musanze industrial zones.
• September 8–10: Media campaign on the Rwanda Emission Inspection Program targeting audiences in Kigali, Rwamagana, and Musanze.
• September 13: Race for Clean Air at Nyandungu Eco-Park, engaging children and parents in fun and educational activities.
• September 16: Official Celebration of Clean Air Day and International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer & Exhibition at the African Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold Chain Systems (ACES) with partners and stakeholders.

By phasing down harmful substances while promoting energy-efficient technologies, Rwanda is ensuring that cooling solutions not only protect the ozone layer but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen resilience against climate change. Rwanda encourages all stakeholders from government institutions and the private sector to communities and individuals to embrace climate-friendly technologies, adopt sustainable cooling practices and appliances, and support ongoing innovation.

As Rwanda celebrates 40 years of the Vienna Convention, it reaffirms its commitment to protecting the ozone layer, advancing sustainable cooling, and contributing to global climate solutions, while inviting partners to continue collaborating through ACES and other platforms to drive innovation and capacity building across Africa.