Rwanda today joined the global community in celebrating World Environment Day 2026 under the theme "Global Call to Climate Action," while commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA). The celebration highlighted Rwanda’s continued commitment to environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development, while recognizing two decades of REMA’s contribution to advancing environmental stewardship.

The national celebration brought together senior government officials, development partners, representatives from the private sector, civil society organizations, academia, youth groups, and environmental stakeholders to reflect on Rwanda’s environmental journey, celebrate achievements made over the past two decades, and renew collective commitment to addressing climate change.

The event emphasized that climate action requires collective responsibility, increased investment, strong partnerships, and integrated approaches that place environmental sustainability at the centre of national development.

Speaking during the celebration, Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye, Minister of Environment, emphasized that Rwanda’s development pathway demonstrates that economic growth and environmental protection can advance together.

“Rwanda’s growth does not require choosing between development and the environment. We must advance both, as the Global Call for Climate Action urges climate finance and collective efforts for a sustainable future,” said Dr. Arakwiye.

She further highlighted the importance of investing in people, landscapes, agriculture, and cities to build a resilient and sustainable future.

“The investments we make today in our landscapes, our agriculture, our cities, and our people will bring us closer to a more prosperous, resilient, and sustainable future. And when millions of those actions come together, they become national transformation,” she added.

Reflecting on REMA’s 20-year journey, Juliet Kabera, Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), acknowledged the strong leadership and support that have enabled Rwanda’s environmental achievements.

“Today’s successes are built on the strong political will and unwavering support of His Excellency President Paul Kagame. Without his leadership, we would not be celebrating the achievements made over the past two decades,” said Juliet Kabera during the World Environment Day celebration.

She also expressed appreciation to partners who have contributed to Rwanda’s environmental progress.

“As we celebrate 20 years of environmental stewardship, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our partners across the environment and climate change sector. Your unwavering collaboration, expertise, and support have been instrumental in advancing environmental protection, conserving biodiversity, strengthening climate resilience, and improving the wellbeing of our communities,” she said.

“Together, we have transformed challenges into opportunities and built a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Rwanda. The achievements we celebrate today are a testament to the power of partnership. Thank you for walking this journey with us, and together we will achieve even more,” added Juliet Kabera.

Since its establishment in 2006, REMA has played a central role in strengthening Rwanda’s environmental governance and coordinating initiatives aimed at protecting natural resources and promoting sustainable development. Over the past two decades, the Authority has contributed to significant progress in ecosystem restoration, wetland and forest conservation, biodiversity protection, climate change adaptation and mitigation, pollution prevention, environmental monitoring, and strengthening environmental compliance.

The celebration also showcased Rwanda’s progress in implementing climate and environmental initiatives that support resilient communities and sustainable livelihoods. Exhibitions highlighted achievements in landscape restoration, climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, sustainable resource management, and community-based environmental conservation.

In line with the theme “Global Call to Climate Action,” participants called for strengthened collaboration among governments, communities, private sector actors, development partners, and citizens to accelerate climate action. They emphasized the importance of investing in nature-based solutions, reducing environmental degradation, increasing climate finance, and promoting sustainable practices at all levels.

The celebration reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to achieving its environmental and climate objectives under Vision 2050, the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), the Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy, and the country’s international climate commitments.

As REMA enters its third decade of service, the institution reaffirmed its commitment to advancing environmental protection, strengthening climate resilience, promoting innovation, and empowering communities to actively participate in building a greener Rwanda.

The event concluded with a renewed call for collective action, reminding every citizen that protecting the environment and addressing climate change is a shared responsibility. Building on 20 years of environmental leadership, Rwanda remains committed to creating a resilient, sustainable, and prosperous future for current and future generations.

View more photos from the celebration here