Today, the Swedish Energy Agency, representing the Kingdom of Sweden, and the Ministry of Environment of Rwanda signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a cooperative partnership in line with the implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement allows for countries to voluntarily cooperate to reach their respective mitigation targets. By working together and trading carbon credits, countries can achieve larger emission reductions than what they otherwise would have been able to with their own resources. 

The MoU was signed in Kigali, marking a significant step in the joint efforts to address climate change and deepen the cooperation between the two countries in relation to their climate mitigation efforts

The partnership sets the stage for both nations to collaborate on areas of mutual interest, particularly in climate change mitigation, as well as in supporting the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) of each country. It will foster joint initiatives such as technical analysis, capacity building, and the development of joint work plans. Eventually, this MoU paves the way for potential legally binding agreements that can further both parties’ joint objectives.

Through this collaboration, the Parties will also engage in dialogue and organize activities and meetings with stakeholders, aiming to promote bilateral cooperation in achieving climate goals.

Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating:

"This partnership with the Swedish Energy Agency reinforces Rwanda’s commitment to implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and advancing our Nationally Determined Contributions. Rwanda is eager to leverage this partnership to not only meet our climate targets but also foster sustainable development that benefits both our environment and our people.”

Martina Fors Mohlin, Chargé d´affaires Embassy of Sweden in Kigali also highlighted the significance of the agreement:

Rwanda has shown that it is possible to combine economic growth with ambitious climate goals. Through its initiatives for a long-term green transition, Rwanda is an inspiration for other countries.  Sweden is committed to finance high-quality Greenhouse Gas mitigation activities in Rwanda that provide substantial contributions to the energy transition in the country

The MoU sets the foundation for Rwanda and Sweden to develop a Bilateral Cooperation Agreement which would enable Sweden to finance emission reduction projects in Rwanda. This will support Rwanda and Sweden’s national efforts to meet their climate targets and drive sustainable development.

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