Nyabarongo River in Kigali, Rwanda

Kigali

In Kigali, Rwanda, SUNCASA will restore critical upstream micro-catchments in the lower Nyabarongo River watershed to reduce flood risk, landslides, and soil erosion. The project will address these risks through a combination of gender-responsive nature-based solutions (NbS), including afforestation, reforestation, agroforestry, and urban tree planting—ultimately enhancing the resilience of 975,000 people.

Kigali faces pressing climate hazards, notably flooding and landslides, exacerbated by the country's rugged topography and rapid urban expansion. The Kicukiro, Nyarugenge, and Gasabo districts where the NbS actions will be implemented have steep slopes, with many homes exposed to the risk of landslides and flooding in downstream areas.

In collaboration with local organizations, SUNCASA activities will rehabilitate critical micro-catchments in the Nyabarongo River watershed through agroforestry, afforestation, and reforestation. In addition, vegetated buffer zones will be established to stabilize gullies and protect high-risk households while controlling encroachment.

NbS Activities in the Nyabarongo River Watershed

SUNCASA - Kigali Watershed vertical