Rwanda and Sweden Forge Cooperation Agreement for Article 6 of the Paris Agreement

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today on 3rd October 2024 in Kigali, between the Swedish Energy Agency, representing Sweden, and the Ministry of Environment of Rwanda, aimed at fostering a cooperative partnership to implement Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

Article 6 allows countries to voluntarily collaborate to meet their climate mitigation targets, enabling larger emission reductions through cooperation and carbon credit trading than what could be accomplished independently.

The MoU, signed in Kigali, represents a pivotal move in the shared efforts to combat climate change and strengthen the partnership between Rwanda and Sweden in their climate mitigation strategies.

This partnership opens avenues for collaboration in areas of shared interest, especially in climate change mitigation and the support of each nation’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). It will encourage joint initiatives encompassing technical analysis, capacity building, and the formulation of collaborative work plans, potentially leading to legally binding agreements that further the objectives of both parties.

The agreement also facilitates dialogue and the organization of joint activities and stakeholder meetings to enhance bilateral cooperation in achieving climate goals.

Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating: “This collaboration with the Swedish Energy Agency underscores Rwanda’s dedication to implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and advancing our Nationally Determined Contributions. We are eager to utilize this partnership to meet our climate targets while promoting sustainable development that benefits both our environment and communities.”

Martina Fors Mohlin, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Sweden in Kigali, also acknowledged the importance of the agreement: “Rwanda has exemplified how to achieve a balance between economic growth and ambitious climate objectives. Its long-term green transition initiatives serve as an inspiration to other nations. Sweden is committed to funding high-quality Greenhouse Gas mitigation activities in Rwanda that will significantly contribute to the country’s energy transition.”

The MoU lays the groundwork for Rwanda and Sweden to establish a Bilateral Cooperation Agreement, which would allow Sweden to fund emission reduction projects in Rwanda, thus supporting the climate targets and sustainable development efforts of both nations.

About the Swedish Energy Agency

The Swedish Energy Agency is the leading agency in Sweden focused on Article 6, with a mandate from the Swedish government to enter into bilateral agreements with various countries.