Minister Biruta, Partners launch Sebeya Catchment Landscape rehabilitation
Rubavu, Rwanda – The Ministry of Environment through Rwanda Water and Forestry Authority (RWFA), together with partners, have launched a new project titled ‘Landscape Restoration and Integrated Water Resources Management in Sebeya and other Catchments.’
The launch takes place on 20th June 2019 in Rubavu District in Kanama Sector within Sebeya Catchment.
The event which attracts thousands of Rubavu residents was officiated by Rwanda’s Minister of Environment Dr. Vicent Biruta, Netherlands Ambassador to Rwanda Frederique de Man, Officials from IUCN, Western province, Dristricts officials, Heads of the Departments, Members of the Church among many others
About the Project
The project which aims at increasing livelihoods and conservation benefits in Sebeya & other catchments through restoration and improved natural resources management, will be implemented in collaboration with International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Netherland Development Organization (SNV) and Action for the Protection of the Environment and Promotion of the Agriculture sector (APEFA) with funding from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (EKN)
The project launch is expected to raise awareness among various stakeholders at national and local levels including the communities, where the project will be implemented, according to the statement from RWFA
It will also be an opportunity for RWFA and partners to enlighten the stakeholders on the benefits that will accrue from implementation of the project.
Sebeya Catchment is shared between Rubavu, Rutsiro, Nyabihu and Ngororero Districts.
It has an area of 336 km2 and is facing social and environmental challenges, as it has some of the steepest slopes, highest mountains and a population density exceeding the national average at 400 people/km2.
Sebeya Catchment Plan revealed that around 18000 ha are threatened by soil erosion.
The area is characterized by floods in Rubavu District and river siltation which has negative impacts on water supply and energy production downstream.
The 3 sub-catchments where the project will be implemented are:
- Karambo: Kanama Sector (Rubavu District) and Nyabirasi Sector (Rutsiro District)
- Sebeya Upstream (Rutsiro, Rubavu and Ngororero Districts);
- Sebeya downstream (Rubavu and Nyabihu Districts).
