Nature-Based Solutions Set to Save Kigali Over $17 Million in Health and Infrastructure Costs by 2050

Kigali, Rwanda – A new integrated cost-benefit analysis from the Scaling Urban Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Adaptation in Sub-Saharan Africa (SUNCASA) project reveals that investing in nature-based solutions (NbS) in Kigali is not only an effective climate strategy but also a financially sound decision, projected to save the city over USD 17 million in avoided health and infrastructure costs by 2050.

The study, which was conducted in the last quarter of 2025, shows that for every USD 1 invested in the SUNCASA project, USD 2.09 in economic, social, and environmental benefits are generated. Furthermore, the analysis projects the project’s investments will achieve a full payback in just seven years, with total NbS benefits exceeding implementation costs by more than double by 2050.

Key Projected Economic and Social Impacts

The SUNCASA project’s nature-based approach is expected to deliver tangible financial and climate resilience benefits to the city and its residents:

• Infrastructure Savings: Over USD 12 million will be saved in avoided costs related to flood-related infrastructure damages.
• Health Savings: USD 5.57 million will be saved in health expenses, mitigating risks associated with climate threats such as floods, landslides, heat, and water pollution.
• Job Creation: The project is projected to create 5,000 green jobs.
• Carbon Storage: Up to 600,000 tonnes of CO₂ will be stored, with an approximate value of USD 3 million.

Restoring Landscapes and Livelihoods

Operating in Kigali in collaboration with local partners and communities, the SUNCASA project is focused on restoring critical micro-catchments in the lower Nyabarongo River watershed and expanding tree canopy across the city. Through gender-responsive and socially inclusive NbS, the project is enhancing the climate resilience of an estimated 975,000 residents.

As of December 31, 2025, the project has made significant strides, including:

• Planting more than 1.3 million trees and 500,000 shrubs.
• Restoring over 2,000 hectares through agroforestry, reforestation, and afforestation.
• Creating 395 hectares of buffer zones to stabilize riverbanks and reduce soil erosion.

The SUNCASA project is co-delivered by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and the World Resources Institute, with funding from Global Affairs Canada. Local implementation partners include the City of Kigali, ARCOS Network, Rwanda Young Water Professionals, Avega-Agahozo, and the Rwanda Forestry Authority.