Rwanda Celebrates World Environment Day 2025: A Call to End Plastic Pollution and Empower the Next Generation

By Ange de la Victoire DUSABEMUNGU

Kigali, Rwanda — On June 5th, 2025, Rwanda marked its participation in the global celebration of World Environment Day under the theme “Ending Plastic Pollution.”

The event at the Kigali Convention Centre brought together government leaders, international partners, youth, children, and the private sector to highlight Rwanda’s ongoing efforts and future commitments to tackling plastic waste and promoting sustainable environmental practices.

Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, emphasized the country’s strides in environmental conservation, recalling how plastic bans introduced over a decade ago have contributed to Kigali’s reputation as one of Africa’s cleanest cities.

“Our collective actions—saying no to unnecessary packaging and using reusable items—are vital steps toward safeguarding our environment,” she declared.

She also called on citizens to maintain momentum, stating, “While we have made significant progress, challenges remain—market pressures, financing gaps, and cross-border plastic flows. It is only through unity and shared responsibility that we can overcome these hurdles and make lasting change.” She reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to a resilient, low-carbon future as envisioned in Vision 2050.

Adding a global perspective, UNDP Rwanda’s Country Representative, Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, highlighted the broad impacts of plastic pollution beyond the environment. “This issue impacts ecosystems, livelihoods, and social equity,” she explained. “Each of us holds a solution in our pockets, and collectively we can make a difference.”

Sesay advocated for scaling effective models and harmonizing regional policies: “We need to expand what works and strengthen cooperation across Africa—plastics recognize no borders.”

Children and youth, often the most affected and most enthusiastic advocates for change, played a central role in the event. Jo Musonda, Country Director for Save the Children Rwanda, passionately spoke about their vital involvement. “Children and youth are the stewards of our future. Their active involvement and awareness are essential in building a sustainable Rwanda,” she said.

She highlighted the importance of continuous environmental education, asserting, “Children are demanding stronger protections and leading community initiatives like tree planting, clean-ups, and recycling campaigns.”

She stressed that children’s rights to a healthy environment are enshrined in international agreements, such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and should be supported through ongoing education and participation opportunities.

Musonda also emphasized that awareness among children is already high, but sustainable change requires consistent and widespread environmental education both in schools and media. “We need to keep environmental issues relevant and ongoing, so children remain motivated to act,” she added. Her optimism was evident as she concluded: “Empowering children through eco-clubs and innovative projects is transforming them into real agents of climate action.”

In addition to speeches and panel discussions, an exhibition showcasing innovative companies working on plastic solutions was held at the venue.

The event featured local businesses specializing in plastic recycling, biodegradable alternatives, and circular economy projects, demonstrating practical steps toward reducing plastic waste and fostering sustainable industries.

As Rwanda joins the world in raising awareness and urging action against plastic pollution, the event underscored a shared message: Sustainable change depends on the collective efforts of governments, civil society, the private sector, and especially the active participation of the youth. With continued innovation, education, and cooperation, Rwanda aims to lead Africa towards a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient future for all.