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By Annonciata Byukusenge
When the environment is damaged by human activity, it directly affects the air we breathe by increasing pollutants in the atmosphere. That is why Rwanda has chosen to invest heavily in protecting the environment and improving air quality.
One major initiative has been the introduction of modern technologies to measure and control vehicle emissions, helping to reduce pollution and protect public health. This commitment was highlighted by Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, as Rwanda joined the rest of the world in marking the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies.
“Rwanda is investing in cleaner air. We have launched a new, cutting-edge program that uses advanced technology to test vehicle emissions. It identifies highly polluting vehicles and supports drivers in adopting cleaner practices,” said Minister Arakwiye.
She added that these efforts are aligned with the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol, two global agreements that unite countries around science-driven, practical solutions for protecting the atmosphere.
The Ministry of Environment also applauded ACES Cooling, a training center that shares knowledge and provides capacity-building programs across Africa.
“ACES Cooling is a powerful example of Rwanda’s leadership in promoting solutions that protect the ozone layer, improve energy efficiency, strengthen food security, and build resilience to climate change,” added Minister Arakwiye.
Researchers have also noted positive progress. Jean Rémy Kubwimana, a scientist studying ozone depletion, observed that the ozone layer is recovering thanks to measures taken by countries worldwide.
“Nations have adopted strategies such as tree planting, using cleaner vehicles, and establishing air quality monitoring stations. These actions are preventing further damage to the ozone layer,” he said.
Juliet Kabera, Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), reinforced Rwanda’s role as a continental leader in advancing clean air policies and phasing out substances that damage the ozone layer.
“Rwanda is determined to build on this legacy by strengthening national institutions, investing in green technologies, and working closely with partners through projects such as ACES Cooling,” she emphasized.
As part of its National Strategy for Transformation II (NST2), 2024–2029, Rwanda has committed to reducing air pollutants by at least 38%.
Back in May 2020, the Ministry of Environment announced that this 38% reduction would translate into 4.6 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions avoided by 2030. This target is fully aligned with the Paris Agreement, which Rwanda ratified in September 2016 after its adoption in December 2015.
The Paris Agreement seeks to keep global warming well below 2°C, and ideally under 1.5°C, by cutting greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Rwanda’s active engagement and concrete investments demonstrate how a small nation can lead by example in the global fight against climate change.
