Representatives of several African countries are in Kigali to discuss possible ways of promoting and updating National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPS) in their respective countries.

Addressing the gathering yesterday, Caroline Kayonga, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources, observed that the workshop was an opportunity to equip regional experts with skills that will lead to the conservation and protection of its renowned biodiversity.

She explained that biodiversity is the foundation of the human wellbeing.

"Not only does it provide the materials we need for food, clothing and shelter, but it also gives us security, health and freedom of choice,” she said.

Kayonga highlighted that Rwanda, among other countries, led in a fight to achieve that sustainable use of biological diversity and ensure the sharing of benefits accrued from the commercial and other utilisation of genetic resources in a fair and equitable way.

The Japanese Ambassador to Rwanda, Kunio Hatanaka, reminded participants that sustainable management of natural resources in the region is critically important to ensure the growth of regional economies.

The East African Community (EAC) Deputy Secretary General in charge of Productive and Social Sector, Jean Claude Nsengiyumva, noted that the Secretariat is keen on ensuring the safety of the ecosystem.

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