Kibuye, August 2019 – Disasters have increasingly become a major global concern, exacerbated by human activities such as environmental degradation and rapid urban expansion. As populations grow, so does their vulnerability to natural calamities. In recognition of these challenges, ARDE/KUBAHO and Medicus Mundi, with support from the Spanish Government through FOCAD 2018, co-organized a two-day workshop aimed at addressing climate change vulnerability and disaster risk reduction.
The workshop, facilitated by Mr. Patrick Safari, an independent consultant, brought together participants from ARDE and UGAMA to explore the drivers and impacts of climate change. Through a highly interactive approach, the training provided critical insights into climate change concepts, key terminologies, and strategies to mitigate community vulnerability.
Participants engaged in discussions on climate change disasters in Rwanda, focusing on environmental degradation and community vulnerability. They reviewed results from a national vulnerability assessment, which examined factors such as meteorological data, agriculture, food and nutrition, health, energy, and livelihoods. The districts identified as most vulnerable included Karongi, Huye, and Gisagara, while those with the highest climate impact were Ngororero, Nyabihu, and Karongi. Gakenke, Burera, Musanze, and Karongi were noted for their strong adaptive capacities.
The workshop also highlighted ongoing initiatives in Kamonyi District, a focal area for ARDE/KUBAHO and Medicus Mundi’s projects. These initiatives include the creation of 80 hectares of radical terraces with agroforestry trees, the rehabilitation of 250 hectares of forestry, improved landfill management, and the construction of 750 biogas units. These efforts reflect the importance of participatory approaches, stakeholder involvement, and evidence-based research in addressing climate challenges.
Mr. Safari concluded the workshop by sharing key tips on conducting effective Training of Trainers (TOT) sessions, emphasizing continuous learning, innovation, creativity, and openness to change.
The workshop underscored the importance of building capacity to adapt to climate change and reduce disaster risks. Participants from ARDE and UGAMA expressed a strong desire to continue exchanging experiences and disseminating knowledge to beneficiaries and beyond.
Future actions were recommended at both the organizational and community levels, including:
- Reducing plastic usage;
- Maximizing rainwater harvesting;
- Promoting the use of organic manure and minimizing chemical pesticide use;
- Mapping high-risk areas susceptible to natural disasters;
- Prioritizing climate change in project proposals;
- Promoting renewable energy in cooperatives;
- Mobilizing farmers for an agricultural guarantee fund;
- Raising awareness of family planning and reproductive health;
- Supporting income-generating activities for women and young people to reduce vulnerability.
This workshop provided a timely and essential foundation for further capacity building and climate resilience in Rwanda’s vulnerable communities.
