Rwanda is exploring new ways of transforming waste into an economic and environmental resource as the country strengthens efforts to promote sustainable waste management and climate-resilient infrastructure.
Minister of Environment Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye held discussions with Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) Deputy Director-General Dr. Mallé Fofana on opportunities to expand investment in waste management and develop infrastructure capable of supporting Rwanda’s green-growth ambitions.
The talks focused on attracting investment into climate-resilient infrastructure, improving waste management systems and advancing a circular economy in which waste is recovered, recycled and converted into useful products rather than simply discarded.
Dr. Arakwiye emphasised the importance of viewing waste as an opportunity for innovation, investment and job creation.
“By converting waste into useful resources, we are not only reducing environmental impact and mitigating emissions, but we are also creating new economic opportunities,” Minister Arakwiye said.
The engagement builds on Rwanda’s ongoing collaboration with GGGI to improve waste management and promote waste valorisation.
Under the Waste to Resources Project, facilities established at the Nduba landfill in Kigali have been designed to separate recyclable materials and process organic waste into valuable products such as organic fertiliser.
The waste-sorting and separation facility can handle up to 100 tonnes of recyclable materials per day, while the biowaste treatment facility is designed to process about five tonnes of organic waste daily and convert it into organic fertiliser.
The initiatives are part of Rwanda’s broader ambition to build a circular, low-carbon economy.
The Waste to Resources Project was designed to support the country’s goal of achieving a zero-waste circular economy by 2035, while reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and creating green employment opportunities.
The discussions between Dr. Arakwiye and Dr. Fofana therefore highlight the growing focus on turning environmental challenges into investment opportunities.
With increasing amounts of waste generated by households, businesses and industries, Rwanda is seeking technologies, financing and partnerships that can improve collection, sorting, recycling and treatment while creating economic value.
The partnership with GGGI is expected to support efforts to develop sustainable waste-management systems that can reduce pressure on landfills, cut emissions and create opportunities for businesses and communities.
For Rwanda, the goal is increasingly clear: waste should not simply be something to dispose of, but a resource that can contribute to green jobs, investment, climate resilience and sustainable economic growth.
