Japan and IOM Rwanda Launch New Initiative to Strengthen Climate Resilience and Reduce Disaster‑Related Displacement in Rwanda

KIgali March 31, 2026, The Government of Japan and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) launched today a new initiative designed to advance climate mobility solutions in Rwanda, through strengthened climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable energy access.
The project aims to strengthen Rwanda’s capacity to reduce climate-related displacement by promoting integrated, locally driven approaches that address both immediate disaster risks and long-term environmental sustainability.

Rwanda continues to experience increasing exposure to climate-related hazards, including extreme weather events, soil erosion, deforestation, and ecosystem degradation. These threats disrupt livelihoods, heighten vulnerability to displacement, and generate growing humanitarian needs. Building resilience in at-risk communities requires coordinated action that connects disaster preparedness, clean energy transition, and community-level risk governance.

Over the next 12 months, through the newly launched project, Enhancing Climate Resilience through Local Innovation in Disaster Risk Reduction and Clean Energy Access, IOM, in close collaboration with the Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA) and the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), will install lightning protection systems in public institutions located in high-risk areas of the country; enhance community-based disaster management through risk mapping, contingency planning, and responder training; and expand access to clean energy, alongside targeted awareness efforts and youth engagement to promote sustainable environmental practices.

“For more than a century, Japan has engaged in disaster prevention and management” said NAKAJO Kazuya , Ambassador of Japan in Rwanda. “This initiative provides an excellent opportunity to showcase proven Japanese technologies across Rwanda, whilst building local capacity and protecting lives and livelihoods.”

“Today, we are proud to build on this momentum with the launch of a new initiative.” noted Ashley CARL, Chief of Mission, IOM Rwanda. “At its heart, this project is about people and communities. It is about supporting practical ideas that work, strengthening local capacity, and reducing the risks that force people to leave their homes. It is also about bringing in partnerships—including with the private sector—to expand what is possible.”

This initiative builds directly on the achievements of the ongoing Japan-funded project, Enhancing Adaptation and Mitigation Capacities to Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events in Rwanda, which has contributed to the operationalization of early warning systems, the development of standardized procedures for evacuation site management and installation of cleaner energy solutions. These investments have already improved preparedness, strengthened energy resilience, and deepened collaboration between national institutions and technical partners.

Japan and IOM will continue working with leading Japanese companies operating in Rwanda—including Otowa Electric Co., Ltd. for lightning protection systems and Jibu Gas One Ltd. for clean energy solutions—to bring advanced technologies and specialized expertise to community-level resilience interventions.
By reinforcing national systems and fostering local innovation, the project will contribute to efforts to reduce the humanitarian impacts of climate-related disasters, safeguard vulnerable communities, scale-up preparedness and contribute to Rwanda’s broader commitments to climate resilience, disaster risk management, and sustainable development.