Rwanda has joined government officials, policymakers, climate experts and international partners in marking 10 years of the Kigali Amendment, with discussions focusing on strengthening global efforts to protect the ozone layer and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The technical workshop, held in Kigali, brings together experts and stakeholders to assess progress made since the landmark agreement was adopted in Rwanda in October 2016 and explore practical measures to accelerate its implementation over the next decade.
Environment Minister Dr Bernadette Arakwiye participated in the meeting, which provides a platform for countries to exchange experiences, discuss emerging technologies and strengthen international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges.
Speaking ahead of the global gathering, Arakwiye emphasised the importance of translating the commitments made under the Kigali Amendment into practical climate action.
“Rwanda is proud to welcome the world back to Kigali, ten years after countries came together here to adopt the Kigali Amendment. MOP38 is an opportunity to recognise the progress made, while also looking at what more is needed to fully implement the commitments we made,” she said.
The Kigali Amendment, adopted on October 15, 2016, requires countries to gradually reduce the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), powerful greenhouse gases commonly used in refrigeration and air-conditioning systems.
Although HFCs do not directly damage the ozone layer, they contribute significantly to global warming.
Full implementation of the agreement is expected to prevent up to 0.5 degrees Celsius of global warming by the end of the century.
Beyond reviewing progress, the workshop is expected to contribute to stronger implementation strategies, increased investment in climate-friendly cooling technologies, skills development and improved management of refrigerants.
For Rwanda, the discussions also present an opportunity to strengthen its position in sustainable cooling solutions, particularly through the African Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold-chain (ACES), which supports training, innovation and the development of environmentally friendly refrigeration systems.
The shift towards cleaner and more energy-efficient cooling technologies could also deliver practical benefits beyond environmental protection, including improved food preservation, stronger healthcare systems, reduced energy consumption and new economic opportunities.
The workshop forms part of a wider programme surrounding the 38th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol (MOP38), taking place in Kigali from November 2 to 6, 2026, bringing together the international community to renew commitments to ozone protection and climate action.
As the Kigali Amendment enters its second decade, the discussions are expected to help move global commitments towards practical implementation, ensuring that countries have the technology, financing and technical capacity needed to deliver lasting environmental benefits.
