February 2025 — In a remarkable initiative to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability, the Green Rising Project, spearheaded by UNICEF, Generation Unlimited (GenU), and the Ministry of Youth and Arts, is making waves across Rwanda. This project is not just about planting trees; it's about planting the seeds of change and empowering the next generation to take charge of their future.

Special Umuganda for Youth: A Tradition of Community and Conservation

At the heart of the Green Rising Project is the Special Umuganda for Youth, a community work initiative deeply rooted in Rwandan culture. These events bring together young people from various communities to engage in activities that protect and preserve the environment. The Green Rising Project aims to engage 150,000 adolescents and youth, with a strong emphasis on gender equality, ensuring that at least 50% of participants are girls. These young climate advocates are not only participating in environmental protection activities but are also receiving training to become Green Rising Youth Ambassadors. Equipped with green skills and knowledge, these ambassadors are poised to lead their communities in the fight against climate change. In October 2024, over 2,000 enthusiastic young volunteers gathered in Gisagara District to plant more than 11,000 trees, a testament to their commitment to a greener Rwanda.

Future Plans: Expanding the Green Horizon

Looking ahead, the Green Rising Project has ambitious plans to further its impact:

1. Expansion to More Districts: The project plans to extend its reach to additional districts beyond the initial seven (Gasabo, Kicukiro, Gisagara, Kayonza, Nyagatare, Rulindo, and Rubavu), aiming to cover more regions and engage even more young people.

2. Innovative Solutions for Tree Maintenance: To ensure the survival and growth of planted trees, the project will implement innovative solutions developed through a youth-centered process. This includes regular monitoring and maintenance strategies to enhance forest restoration and community resilience.

3. Digital and Print Educational Materials: The project will identify, review, and adapt existing gender-responsive climate promotion and educational materials. These resources will be made available in both digital and print formats to educate and empower more young people.

4. Green Rising Youth Ambassadors: The selection and training of at least 150 Green Rising Youth Ambassadors will continue, focusing on green skills, gender equality, and local implementation of the Green Rising initiative.

5. Online Campaigns and Community Engagement: The project will leverage online platforms like Goodwall for the #GreenRaising Campaign, encouraging widespread participation and innovative documentation of project results.

A Global Movement for a Sustainable Future

This initiative is part of a broader global effort to cultivate 10 million young climate advocates by 2025. By empowering Rwanda's youth, the Green Rising Project is contributing to a worldwide movement that recognizes the critical role young people play in addressing the climate crisis.