The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has commended Rwanda’s efforts to combat deforestation and promote forest conservation.

Speaking to The New Times, during the meeting that brought together regional stakeholders in forestry conservation under the Central African Program for Environment (CARPE), Forest Program Coordinator, Cleto Ndikumagenge pointed out that Rwanda’s progress is very positive.

"Rwanda’s progress on conservation programs has been very positive and impressive,” he noted.

"Other countries should take example and follow the steps it has taken for meaningful forestry conservation”.
He added that the strides Rwanda has taken in promoting eco-tourism, environmental protection and watershed conservation cannot go unnoticed.

Ndikumagenge called on the stakeholders to work hand in hand with CARPE beneficiaries to see that they also develop their structures for better results.

"Rwanda has done well in eco-tourism and watershed conservation, the government’s commitment in forestry conservation has enabled a number of achievements to materialise, so it should be commended for that,’ he said.

The Minister of Forestry and Mines, Christophe Bazivamo, revealed that government is currently intensifying efforts to minimise use of charcoal and other fossil fuels.

"We are encouraging other cooking means like eco-friendly stoves and the use of peat as heating agents in homes and factories” he noted.

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