Rwanda is taking bold steps towards a sustainable future with the launch of the Partnership for Action on Green Economy (PAGE) programme, a five-year partnership to accelerate the country's inclusive, sustainable green growth and climate change initiatives. As part of the programme, Rwanda received a grant of $2 million (about Rwf2 billion) to support the government's efforts to foster green growth, reduce poverty, create jobs, enhance social equity, and improve livelihoods.

According to Asad Naqvi, head of the PAGE Secretariat, "Rwanda has shown a strong commitment to follow through with necessary actions to develop and sustain an inclusive and green economy. "We are pleased to partner with the Government of Rwanda to champion national efforts to make the whole of the economy green, circular, and socially inclusive."

The programme will support the implementation of key strategies that are part of Rwanda's ambitious climate action plan, which aims to reduce emissions by 38 per cent by 2030 through improved energy production, waste management, transport, agriculture, and nature-based conservation. Dr Claudine Uwera, the Minister of State in charge of Economic Planning, explained that "PAGE's partnership will foster Rwanda's medium to long term plan in sustainable and climate-resilient economic development path."

PAGE is a joint initiative of five UN agencies and operates in 22 countries globally, including five in Africa. The programme supports nations in transitioning to an inclusive green economy by expanding options and choices for national economies, using targeted and appropriate fiscal and social protection policies, and being backed up by strong institutions that safeguard social and ecological floors.

Rwanda's commitment to sustainable development and collaboration with PAGE is an inspiring example for other nations. The programme serves as a reminder that we can achieve economic growth, job creation, rising incomes, and prosperity through investments in solutions for local and global sustainability challenges.

Other countries, such as Costa Rica, are also making similar transitions towards sustainable development, using a combination of fiscal policies, regulations, and innovative strategies. Rwanda's success with the PAGE programme will provide valuable lessons for other nations looking to create a more sustainable future.

As Rwanda and PAGE work together to build a greener, more sustainable future, we are reminded of the power of partnerships and the impact we can make when we work towards a common goal. With bold leadership and innovative thinking, Rwanda is showing the world that sustainable, inclusive growth is not just necessary but possible. Let us all take action toward a more sustainable future for all.

As part of the PAGE implementation, a stocktaking study is yet to commence, part of which will include stakeholder consultation across government institutions, civil society organizations and the private sector. The study will indicate green economy achievements, existing challenges and how to respond to these challenges through prioritising areas and/or interventions where government and other stakeholders want PAGE to focus on.

The writer is the UNDP-PAGE Coordinator and Technical Advisor on Environment and Climate Change at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning.