The African Development Fund (ADF) is the concessional window of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group.
Established in 1972, it became operational in 1974. The ADF-recipient countries include those that are increasing their economic capacities and heading toward becoming the new emerging markets, as well as those that remain fragile and need special assistance for basic levels of service delivery.
According to a statement released by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the project aims to build climate resilience in flood-prone catchments of Rusizi and Karongi districts by implementing nature-based flood adaptation and promoting community-led soil conservation and catchment restoration.
Expected outcomes include reduced flood and landslide exposure, decreased soil erosion and water siltation, and improved land productivity.
An estimated 1.2 million residents are expected to gain from improved early warning systems and better protection of key water resources, while over 620,000 people will benefit from reduced flood risk.
Other activities include the reforestation of 10,000 hectares, construction of vegetated flood barriers, and rehabilitation of degraded riverbanks and hillsides.
More than 6,000 people will receive climate adaptation training and 120 technical students will gain practical 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 project task manager.
Flooding and landslides have repeatedly devastated this region, claiming lives, damaging schools and water systems, and undermining livelihoods.
Through nature-based solutions, such as reforestation, terracing, and riverbank stabilisation, the project will reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, and increase agricultural productivity.
IGIHE
