UoK Marks World Environment Day: A delegation from the University of Kigali, led by Dr. Kwena Ronald, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Enterprise, proudly participated in this year’s World Environment Day celebrations held at the Kigali Convention Centre. The event, organized by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), brought together key stakeholders committed to environmental conservation and sustainability.
Themed “Ending Plastic Pollution”, the 2025 World Environment Day in Rwanda aligned closely with the University of Kigali’s growing portfolio of research and community engagement efforts focused on circular economy, green innovation, and sustainable development. The university’s active involvement underscores its institutional commitment to contributing to Rwanda’s green transformation and broader global sustainability goals.
Keynote and Distinguished Speakers
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, who emphasized the urgent need to accelerate the transition to sustainable production and consumption patterns. She highlighted the government’s legislative and policy efforts to eliminate plastic pollution and promote eco-innovation across all sectors of society.
Other notable speakers included:
- Juliet Kabera, Director General of REMA, who reiterated Rwanda’s leadership in environmental policy and its pioneering role in banning single-use plastics.
- Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, UNDP Rwanda Country Representative, who spoke on multilateral collaboration and climate finance for developing countries.
- Joanne Musonda, Country Director for Save the Children Rwanda, who linked environmental degradation to child health and welfare.
- Joyeuse Uwingeneye, Director General of the Rwanda Public Procurement Authority (RPPA), who advocated for sustainable procurement practices as a driver of green economic growth.
- CP George Rumanzi, Commissioner for Operations & Public Order – Rwanda National Police who spoke on the engagement with the public in prevention and reduction of unlawful environmental activities
UoK Marks World Environment Day:-Research Commitment
Dr. Kwena Ronald expressed appreciation for the invitation and stressed the importance of academic institutions in advancing environmental solutions. “The University of Kigali is at the forefront of developing knowledge, innovations, and policies that support the circular economy,” he stated. “Our staff and students are engaged in research that directly addresses plastic pollution and promotes sustainable practices in industries and communities.”
The university’s current initiatives include:
- Collaborative pilot research projects on waste management and circular economy with local cooperatives.
- The International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development, which will serve as a platform for thought leadership, policy dialogue, and solution sharing among scholars, policymakers, and practitioners.
- Community outreach programs that promote sustainable consumption and localized environmental education.
Participation in this high-level event has strengthened the University of Kigali’s strategic ties with environmental institutions and international development partners. The university aims to continue playing a catalytic role in Rwanda’s environmental sustainability ecosystem, through interdisciplinary research, curriculum innovation, and multi-sector partnerships.
As the world grapples with the impacts of pollution and climate change, the University of Kigali remains committed to shaping future-ready leaders and generating research that leads to tangible environmental impact.
