Rwanda’s APEFA Exceeds Expectations in 2024, Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future
Kigali, Rwanda – 07/30/2025 – Action pour la Protection de l’Environnement et la Promotion des Filières Agricoles (APEFA), a leading Rwandan non-governmental organization, has released its 2024 Annual Report, showcasing substantial achievements in environmental conservation, agricultural sustainability, and community empowerment. The report highlights significant progress made through strategic initiatives, despite facing operational challenges.
Key Achievements in 2024:
- Environmental Conservation: APEFA restored 350 hectares of degraded land through afforestation and agroforestry, planting 108,266 trees. This includes fruit, indigenous, and agroforestry species. The organization also conducted 30 awareness campaigns on climate change adaptation, reaching 15,000 people.
- Sustainable Agriculture and Livelihoods: APEFA trained over 83,000 smallholder farmers in climate-smart agriculture techniques to enhance productivity and sustainability. Two youth-centered model fruit orchards were established, creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs. Additionally, five cooperatives were strengthened by implementing solar-powered irrigation systems, ensuring year-round agricultural productivity.
- Gender Inclusion and Community Empowerment: APEFA empowered communities by providing financial literacy training to 125 women through Savings for Transformation (S4T) groups. The Gender Action Learning System (GALS) was expanded, promoting gender-equitable decision-making in 50 households. The organization also supported two youth-led agribusinesses, fostering economic opportunities.
- Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Initiatives: APEFA rehabilitated 10 rainwater harvesting systems in Bugesera District and identified 500 sites for toilet construction for vulnerable communities in Gakenke District.
Financial Performance:
APEFA demonstrated strong financial management, mobilizing RWF 2.5 billion from various funding partners. An impressive 90% of funds were directly contributed to program impact, with 70% allocated to project implementation, 20% to capacity building, and 10% to administration.
Strategic Initiatives and Events:
APEFA actively participated in the Agri Show 2024 held in Kigali, showcasing innovations such as small-scale irrigation and fish farming. The organization engaged policymakers and donors, securing new commitments.
The Five Fruit Trees per Household Initiative was launched, with over 5,400 fruit trees planted in households and schools across six sectors in Rubavu District. This initiative aims to strengthen food security, nutrition, and climate resilience.
Challenges and Lessons Learned:
Despite the progress, APEFA faced challenges such as unpredictable weather patterns and funding uncertainties. The organization implemented climate adaptation measures, securing multi-year funding covering 80% of budget needs.
Future Plans and Strategic Directions:
APEFA is committed to expanding its impact in the coming years, with key focus areas including:
- Scaling up tree planting efforts to restore an additional 500 hectares.
- Developing new climate finance mechanisms to support community resilience projects.
- Strengthening engagement in policy advocacy for climate-smart agriculture and environmental sustainability.
- Expanding digital solutions for agricultural extension services and climate information dissemination.
- Enhancing participation in international environmental and agricultural exhibitions to showcase Rwanda’s progress.
- Comparison of Strategic Plan Year 1 vs. Achievements:
| Category | Planned (Strategic Plan Year 1) | Achieved in 2024 | % Achieved |
|---|---|---|---|
| Land Restoration | 400 ha | 350 ha | 87.50% |
| Tree Planting | 120,000 | 108,266 | 90.20% |
| Climate Awareness Campaigns | 40 | 30 | 75.00% |
| Farmers Trained | 100K+ | over 83K+ | 83.30% |
| Farmer Cooperatives | 25 | 21 | 84.00% |
| Solar-Powered Irrigation | 15 | 10 | 66.70% |
| Women Trained | 700 | 125 | 17.40% |
| GALS Expansion | 60 communities | 50 communities | 83.30% |
| Youth Agribusinesses | 300 | 200 | 66.70% |
| Rainwater Systems | 15 | 10 | 66.70% |
| Safe Drinking Water Access | 7,000 | 5,000 | 71.40% |
| Funds Mobilized | RWF 3B | RWF 2.5B | 83.30% |
| Efficiency Ratio | 80% | 90% | 112.50% |
| Climate Adaptation | 2,500 ha | 2,000 ha | 80.00% |
| Technology Adoption | 50% | 45% | 90.00% |
While some targets were slightly below 100% due to operational challenges, APEFA’s fund utilization efficiency exceeded expectations, and key impact areas showed strong results.
Mr Oscar NZABONIMPA, APEFA’s Executive Director
Acknowledgments:
APEFA extends its deepest appreciation to its partners, donors, and community stakeholders for their unwavering support. The organization’s success is a result of collective efforts in advancing sustainable development and improving livelihoods across Rwanda.
For more information, visit www.apefarwanda.org or contact info@apefarwanda.org.
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