Rwanda Marks National Clean Air Day with Call for Collective Action
KIGALI — Rwanda on Friday held its national celebration of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, underscoring the country’s push to improve air quality through stronger partnerships and practical measures.
Fidèle Bingwa, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, officiated the event under the theme “Clean Air for Health, Prosperity and a Sustainable Future.” The gathering brought together officials from government, academia, the private sector and the health sector.
In his opening remarks, Bingwa stressed the shared responsibility for cleaner air.
“Having clean air is a shared goal. The conversation should now be about how we achieve it, through collective action, stronger partnerships and practical solutions that improve air quality and protect people’s health,” he said.
REMA Director General Juliet Kabera also addressed the audience, emphasising the human cost of pollution and the need for urgent action. She stressed that Rwanda must do everything possible to protect lives by improving air quality, noting that the country’s greatest asset is its people.
Kabera called for collective action to protect air quality, safeguard children’s health and build a sustainable future for Rwanda.
The national event followed the global observance on 7 September. Discussions focused on advancing sustainable industrial development, improving emission management and changing behaviours that contribute to pollution.
During a panel on industrial performance, participants highlighted the need for mindset shifts alongside technology. “The main source of air pollution is the mindset,” said Dr Joseph Ndakize Sebaziga.
Industry representatives pointed to cleaner production methods already in use. Mehul Brahmbhatt, CEO of Imana Steel Rwanda Ltd, noted that progress is possible: “The chimney can run without smoke; the car can move without smoke.”
Organisers said the celebration reinforced ongoing national efforts to curb emissions from vehicles, factories and other sources while linking cleaner air to public health, economic prosperity and long-term sustainability. Officials called on all Rwandans to play their part in the shared goal of healthier skies.
About The Author
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
