Nurturing biodiversity for a sustainable tomorrow in Rwanda

This documentary, produced by UNDP’s Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) in Rwanda, highlights the crucial role BIOFIN plays in addressing Rwanda’s biodiversity finance gap. Set against the breathtaking natural landscapes of the country's national parks, the documentary traces BIOFIN’s journey since 2018, showcasing its efforts to integrate biodiversity finance into national strategies through innovative financial solutions. It also details the program's successes in training and implementation, aiming to raise awareness and inspire action for biodiversity conservation in Rwanda and beyond.

Rwanda’s Biodiversity Finance Plan identified eight finance solutions to safeguard ecosystems and prevent future costs. Two key finance solutions are currently being implemented:

1. Integrating biodiversity conservation into the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process.
2. Channeling environmental fees and fines into a dedicated biodiversity fund.

To date, 149 EIA experts and 63 biodiversity actors have been trained, and ministerial orders have been updated to incorporate biodiversity into Rwanda’s environmental policies. This approach protects Rwanda’s natural heritage and supports the long-term sustainability of the country’s rich ecosystems.