Young people from across Rwanda gathered for a Youth Consultation Workshop on Rwanda’s new Climate Action Plan, known as a Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreements (NDC 3.0), engaging in discussions on climate change and the role of youth in shaping Rwanda’s climate policies. 

Organised by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) in partnership with UNICEF, the workshop aimed to integrate child and youth issues into the development of Rwanda’s updated NDC 3.0.

The consultation was a crucial step in ensuring that Rwanda’s updated climate action plan is inclusive and considers the perspectives, challenges, and innovative solutions proposed by young people. By amplifying youth voices, the workshop provided an opportunity to contribute to policies that will define Rwanda’s sustainable future.

“Youth participation and engagement in climate action can not be sidelined. This workshop has given young people a voice and active participation in shaping Rwanda's NDC 3.0 and many more climate policies, ensuring they align with the Paris Agreement,” said Redempter Batete, Gender Specialist at UNICEF.

A presentation by an expert consultant provided an overview of climate change impacts, Rwanda’s progress under its NDC 2.0, and the roadmap for NDC 3.0. Participants gained insights into national and global strategies, equipping them with the knowledge needed to contribute effectively.

Through group discussions, participants shared their experiences and proposed climate solutions tailored to youth priorities. The discussions centred on climate change mitigation, adaptation, capacity building, and technology transfer solutions. Young people also explored challenges faced by vulnerable communities and the role of youth-led initiatives in building resilience.

“Young people face challenges related to unemployment, gender based violence, and inadequate access to health services as a result of climate change. We hope that the issues and solutions we shared in this workshop will be included in the NDC 3.0,” said Ivan Rwema, a Youth Climate and Sustainability Advocate, and participant of the workshop.

Evelyne Munezero, another participant and Youth Advocate added, “I expect that there will be more education and raising awareness activities for young people so we can learn more about climate change and the action we need to take as it has been raised in the workshop.”

Key topics discussed included sustainable energy, green jobs, climate-smart agriculture, and disaster preparedness. The workshop encouraged innovative thinking, with youth presenting tangible interventions to be incorporated into NDC 3.0.

In the plenary session, working groups presented their findings, sparking constructive dialogue on how to mainstream youth perspectives in Rwanda’s climate policies. Participants also discussed strategies for effective communication and engagement, ensuring that young people remain active stakeholders beyond the consultation process.

The insights from this consultation will inform Rwanda’s NDC 3.0, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to an inclusive and sustainable climate action plan. The next steps involve refining recommendations, setting key indicators, and ensuring meaningful youth involvement in the policy implementation phase.

With the enthusiasm and commitment displayed, Rwanda’s youth are proving to be not just beneficiaries of climate policies but active agents of change, shaping a resilient and sustainable future for all.

Rwanda is developing its new Climate Action Plan (NDC 3.0) with support from the World Bank and other development partners including UNDP,  FAO, WFP, GIZ, WHO, GGGI, UNFPA, CCAC, UNICEF, IFAD, UN Women, IoM, and ILO.

Learn more about Rwanda’s climate action efforts here.