TREPA project targets to restore 60,000 ha of drought-degraded landscapes into climate resilient ecosystems through reforestation, agroforestry, restoration of pasturelands and soil erosion control measures in all the seven districts of the eastern province. The project also will increase the resilience of 75,000 small holder farmers.

In her open remarks, Ms Kaori Yasuda, the IUCN Rwanda Country Representative, appreciated the progress made and called for accelerated delivery on key targets.

 “This 2nd PSC meeting happens at the right timing, following the completion of the TREPA’s one-year Inception Phase ended on 31 December 2022.  Despite the initial delay in implementation, we have succeeded in catching up at the last quarter of the inception phase and achieved key deliverables and results which are summarised in the Inception Report submitted to GCF Secretariat”. Kaori addressed to the PSC members.

Photo: The TREPA PSC meeting brought together members of the steering committee from different institutions

She sincerely thanked the leadership of the Eastern province and 7 districts (Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kayonza, Kirehe, Ngoma, Rwamagana, and Nyagatare), and all TREPA implementing partners Rwanda Forestry Authority, IUCN, Enabel, ICRAF, World Vision, and Cordaid for their great contributions.

The Executive Secretary of the Eastern Province, Jeanne Nyirabihamana appreciated the IUCN for the overall leadership as accredited entity and all partners for the joint efforts in transforming the Eastern Province of Rwanda.

Mrs Jeanne called on all partners to join efforts in transforming the eastern province through the use of a community-based approach and the involvement of the local leaders to create ownership of the local communities and sustainability of the interventions.

Speaking at the opening PSC meeting, Mr. Patrick Karera, the Permanent Secretary in Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment congratulated the progress made and called on all implementing partners to closely work with local leaders and local communities to accelerate delivery of TREPA.

Photo: The TREPA Chief of Party, Mr Olivier Habimana showcased TREPA’s performance in the inception phase

In his presentation, the Chief of Party of TREPA, Mr Olivier Habimana showcased TREPA's performance in the inception phase, the deliverable produced including strong stakeholder engagement, establishment of implementation arrangements and project governance as well as the technical launch towards the end of the year 2022.

He presented the aggressive implementation plan and strategies to restore 12,400 ha of degraded landscape in the second year of the project over a total of 60,000 ha targeted.

The steering committee provided guidance to fast-track implementation, improving coordination with district authorities through MoUs before approving the Year two Annual Workplan and Budget.