Young Rwandans Have Their Say in Shaping Rwanda’s New Climate Action Plan

As Rwanda updates its Climate Action Plan, known as a Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0), young Rwandans have been given the opportunity to contribute to its development. Through nationwide consultations, their views, ideas and concerns have been gathered to ensure their voices are reflected in Rwanda’s climate commitments and proposed solutions.

The Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), with support from United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Rwanda, facilitated interactive workshops in three schools across different regions in Rwanda, including:

• Groupe Scolaire Murama (Bugesera District)
• Lycée Nyundo (Rubavu District)
• Lycée Notre Dame de Cîteaux (Nyarugenge District)

These schools were selected based on their location (representing both rural and urban youth), age group, and vulnerability to climate change impacts such as droughts, floods, and landslides.

Each session introduced students to climate change concepts in simple and relatable terms using animated videos, illustrations, and storytelling. Following the presentations, students participated in group discussions to share their experiences and propose solutions.

The students discussed:

• The impacts of climate change in their schools and communities
• The environmental challenges they face, such as floods, droughts, and air pollution
• Practical actions they believe could help their communities adapt to climate impacts
• The learning materials they need to better understand climate change

The children’s contributions reflected a deep awareness of the natural environment and a strong sense of responsibility toward protecting it.

From proposing tree planting initiatives to school-based recycling projects, students shared practical ideas grounded in their daily experiences. They suggested sorting waste at school, reusing plastic bottles for creative purposes like plant pots, and encouraging the recycling of paper. Many also advocated for integrating climate education into the school curriculum. These ideas demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability and their desire to contribute to positive change.

The diversity of the schools ensured that voices from both urban and rural settings, and from areas with distinct climate vulnerabilities, were included in the process.

“This session was really eye-opening. Many of us didn’t fully understand climate change, but now we see how serious it is. As science students and especially as a tech girl, I feel more motivated to find solutions,” said Nsenga Harriette, a student at Lycée Notre Dame de Cîteaux.

"I was very pleased that you visited us and spoke to us about climate change, and that you also took the time to gather our views to be included in Rwanda’s updated Climate Action Plan," said Elisha Giramahoro, a student at Groupe Scolaire Murama.

Insights gathered from these workshops will inform the recommendations for mainstreaming child-sensitive approaches in Rwanda’s NDC 3.0. These inputs will ensure that future climate action protects children’s rights, enhances their resilience, and recognises them as active participants in climate solutions.

By placing children and youth at the heart of climate action, Rwanda aims to set an example for inclusive and future-focused policy development.

The enhanced NDC 3.0 is being developed with support from a range of partners including UNDP, FAO, WFP, GIZ, WHO, GGGI, UNFPA, CCAC, UNICEF, IFAD, UN Women, IOM, and ILO.

View photos from the workshop here.