The Future Policy Award is a big deal for Rwanda

The future policy award observes policies that create better living conditions for current and future generations. The award raises global awareness for exemplary policies and speeds up action towards just, sustainable and peaceful societies. The Future Policy Award is the first award that celebrates policies rather than people on an international level. Each year the World Future Council chooses one topic on which policy progress is particularly urgent. Recently, Rwanda’s National Forest policy won the 2011 Future Policy Award, for having the world’s most inspiring and innovative forest policy. The news was revealed by the World Future Council (WFC) in New York City. Alexandra Wandel, the Director of World Future Council commended Rwanda for her, “visionary policies and contribution to the conservation and sustainable development of forests for the benefit of protecting future generations.” She said the aim of the award is to raise global awareness for these policies and speed up policy action. When Rwanda won the award, the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, Stanislas Kamanzi, urged Rwandans to consolidate the achievements and take them to greater heights. “Winning this award comes as a very encouraging recognition of our national efforts to be part of the global endeavor to sustainably manage our environment and natural resources through adequate forestry development policies and actions,”Kamanzi said. Dr.Rose Mukankomeje, the Director General of Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) said, “The Government has put up many policies with the purpose of conserving the environment such as the ban on plastic bags.” Rwanda is a pioneer in banning plastic bags. The bill was passed in parliament and implemented in 2008 to forbid the manufacturing and importing of polythene bags. Rwanda has portrayed a lot of effort in conserving nature and protecting the environment. It has been exemplary in all aspects of protecting forests and ensuring a safe environment. m.kaitesi@yahoo.com