The African Development Fund (ADF), the concessional arm of the African Development Bank Group, has approved a grant of $9.4 million to the Republic of Rwanda for the Nature-Based Flood Adaptation Project, aimed at strengthening climate resilience in the western districts of Karongi and Rusizi.
The project focuses on using nature-based solutions to reduce flooding and landslides, improve soil conservation, and restore catchments in flood-prone communities. It is designed to safeguard lives, protect key infrastructure, and enhance agricultural productivity through community-led environmental restoration.
An estimated 1.2 million people will benefit from improved early warning systems and better protection of vital water resources, while more than 620,000 residents will experience reduced flood risk. Planned activities include the reforestation of 10,000 hectares, construction of vegetated flood barriers, and rehabilitation of degraded riverbanks and hillsides. Additionally, over 6,000 people will receive climate adaptation training, and 120 technical students will gain hands-on experience in eco-engineering and water management.
“By using nature as our first line of defence, we are helping Rwandan communities adapt to a changing climate while creating jobs, restoring ecosystems, and securing their future,” said Lazarus Phiri, Principal Water and Sanitation Engineer and the project’s task manager.
Flooding and landslides have long devastated Rwanda’s western highlands, damaging schools, homes, roads, and water infrastructure. The new project aims to reverse this trend by deploying sustainable solutions such as reforestation, terracing, and riverbank stabilization, which will not only reduce erosion and siltation but also boost agricultural yields and protect key public assets.
The initiative also supports the Kivu Belt Water Project, financed by the Bank Group, by improving water catchment protection and ensuring sustainable water supply in the region.
Aligned with Rwanda’s Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy and the African Development Bank Group’s ADF-16 priorities, the project highlights the power of nature-based approaches in building sustainable, climate-resilient livelihoods.
Ultimately, the Nature-Based Flood Adaptation Project stands as a model for integrating environmental restoration with community development — protecting lives today while building prosperity for tomorrow.