Rwanda is strengthening its commitment to global climate action, green investment and international cooperation at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), taking place in Antalya, Türkiye. The country is using the global gathering to promote practical climate solutions, showcase investment opportunities and build partnerships that support a greener and more resilient future.
According to Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment, the Rwandan delegation, led by Prime Minister Dr Justin Nsengiyumva, is advancing six key negotiation priorities: climate finance, adaptation, carbon markets, loss and damage, emissions reduction, and a just transition to clean energy.
On climate finance, Rwanda is advocating for a clear roadmap to deliver the annual $300 billion climate finance goal agreed at COP29, with greater attention to funding adaptation programmes in vulnerable countries. The country is also supporting the implementation of the Global Goal on Adaptation through indicators that will help measure progress and track international support.
Rwanda is further promoting high-integrity carbon markets and partnerships under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Through these initiatives, the country aims to strengthen international cooperation and expand opportunities for climate financing. It is also encouraging support through the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage to help countries address the impacts of climate-related events.
On emissions reduction, Rwanda is calling for stronger international cooperation in technology transfer, capacity building and financing. It also supports a fair transition away from unabated fossil fuels, with adequate financial support to enable developing countries to expand access to clean energy.
Rwanda Showcases Green Investment Opportunities
Beyond climate negotiations, Rwanda is highlighting its growing opportunities for green investment in renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, green cities, e-mobility and nature-based solutions.
The country is also presenting its Cabinet-endorsed Country Platform for Climate and Development, which provides a coordinated approach to implementing national climate priorities and mobilising investment.
Through its national pavilion, Rwanda is bringing together government institutions, development partners, businesses and young people to explore partnerships and opportunities that can accelerate the country’s green growth.
Planned activities include presenting Rwanda’s Country Platform, launching the Climate-Smart Agriculture Programme and introducing the Distributed Renewable Energy Fund under the Rwanda Green Fund Investment Arm.
Other sessions will showcase financing opportunities for biodiversity conservation, the role of climate data in informed decision-making, ecosystem restoration and the implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
The programme will also highlight Rwanda-Singapore cooperation in carbon markets, promote transparency and feature the launch of Rwanda’s Carbon Registry.
Rwanda Promotes Global Implementation of the Kigali Amendment
Rwanda is also using COP31 to advance universal ratification and accelerated implementation of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which marks its tenth anniversary this year.
The call follows Rwanda’s successful hosting of the 38th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol (MOP38) in Kigali the previous week, further highlighting the country’s contribution to international environmental cooperation.
The Kigali Amendment aims to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), powerful greenhouse gases commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning. Its implementation has the potential to prevent up to 0.5°C of global warming by 2100. When combined with improvements in cooling energy efficiency, the climate benefits could reach approximately 1°C.
Through its participation in COP31, Rwanda is reinforcing its commitment to translating climate commitments into practical solutions, attracting sustainable investment and strengthening partnerships that support climate resilience, economic growth and environmental protection.
