Kigali Summit Pledges Universities as Catalysts for Green Development

The International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development (ICGSD 2025) has commenced in Kigali, marking a significant step towards positioning universities as pivotal drivers in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The conference, hosted by the University of Kigali (UoK) in partnership with North-West University and the University of Fort Hare, has drawn together leading academics, policymakers, industry experts, and advocates to address critical environmental challenges and explore sustainable solutions.

A landmark announcement during the conference was UoK’s unveiling of its “Green Ambition,” which includes the establishment of Rwanda’s first Green University in Kigali’s Kimihurura Sector, Gasabo District. Construction is already underway, with the university poised to become a leading force in advancing the green sustainable development agenda through its educational programs.

“We are finalizing a new five-years strategy that positions us to become the first Green University in Rwanda. a center of excellence for green science research and innovative education,” stated Philibert Afrika, Chairman of the UoK Governing Body. “Our vision is deeply rooted in global challenges, social engagement, and sustainable human capacity development.”

To realize this vision, UoK will establish a dedicated Green Office to integrate sustainability into its leadership and governance, ensuring that institutional policies align with sustainability goals. The university will also emphasize curriculum and research focused on sustainability education, social responsibility, and community engagement, fostering collaborations with local and international partners.

“To create a greener university is a novelty, and I am sure there are very few universities in the world that have already endorsed this vision,” Afrika noted.

[caption id=“attachment_31847” align=“alignnone” width=“1024”] Philibert Afrika, Chairman of the UoK Governing Body[/caption]

Dr. Ronald Kwena, Director of Research and Innovation, in the University of Kigali, elaborated on the Green Ambition, highlighting its focus on sustainable infrastructure, governance, research, community engagement, and student advocacy. The Green University is expected to open within two years, attracting qualified staff and students from across Africa in green growth fields.

Ambassador Professor Peter K. Ngure, Kenya’s Ambassador to UNESCO, delivered a keynote address challenging universities to prioritize the 17 SDGs. “Any university curriculum should be geared to respond to the attainment of the targets of the UN sustainable development goals,” he emphasized, stressing the need for practical curricula that equip graduates with research skills, analytical thinking, and disciplinary expertise.

“Therefore, sustainable development goals are a very good guide to what we should be doing because there is urgency in Africa,” Ngure stated. He also commended Rwanda’s leadership in translating the green growth agenda into tangible results. “Whenever the name Rwanda is mentioned in the diplomatic space, like at UNESCO, everybody turns and is willing to engage and help,” he remarked.

[caption id=“attachment_31848” align=“alignnone” width=“1024”] Ambassador Professor Peter K. Ngure, Kenya’s Ambassador to UNESCO[/caption]

Marie Dalie Dukuze, acting Director of Advocacy and Multilateral Environment Agreement Monitoring Unit at Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), highlighted Rwanda’s concrete green growth initiatives, including reducing carbon emissions by 38% by 2030, developing Kigali as a green city, and establishing the Ireme fund. The Ireme fund, with an initial capitalization of $104 million, supports private sector access to green finance for climate action.

[caption id=“attachment_31849” align=“alignnone” width=“1008”] Marie Dalie Dukuze, acting Director of Advocacy and Multilateral Environment Agreement Monitoring Unit at Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA)[/caption]

Africa is disproportionately affected by climate change, despite contributing minimally to global emissions. The continent accounts for less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet faces severe consequences such as increased droughts and floods.

The 3 days conference,  aims to establish lasting partnerships and drive meaningful change.

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