Climate-resilient rural settlement projects in Rwanda’s Gakenke and Kirehe districts are creating employment opportunities for young women and other local residents. Some young women say their earnings have helped them buy livestock, meet personal needs and strengthen their financial independence.
The initiative forms part of Rwanda’s LDCF3 programme, implemented by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) with partner institutions and support from the Global Environment Facility and the United Nations Development Programme. The project combines climate-adapted settlements with facilities and activities intended to support livelihoods, including small-business spaces, early childhood development services, greenhouse agriculture and rainwater harvesting.
REMA reports that more than 600 people, including women and young people, are involved in activities linked to establishing rural settlements and their facilities in Gakenke District. The long-term benefits will depend on maintaining the facilities and sustaining income-generating activities.
