Rwanda's Prime Minister, Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, has arrived in Antalya, Türkiye, to represent President Paul Kagame at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP31. The conference began on November 9 and will conclude on November 20, 2026. According to a statement released by the Prime Minister's office, Dr. Nsengiyumva will participate in the conference, which is expected to be attended by over 90,000 participants.
The conference focuses on accelerating the implementation of climate change commitments and addressing the challenges of climate change. The meeting of heads of state and government is scheduled for November 11-12, 2026, and aims to strengthen international cooperation and political will to address climate change. Discussions will center on key issues, including mobilizing climate finance, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing climate resilience.
Participants will also discuss the transition to a low-carbon economy, ensuring that workers and communities are not left behind in this transition. The conference will focus on climate-resilient infrastructure, sustainable agriculture and food systems, climate-resilient cities, and protecting biodiversity. Additionally, the conference will launch the second global stocktake of progress toward achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The Rwandan government has stated that one of its objectives at COP31 is to secure sufficient financial support for climate change adaptation and resilience-building efforts. The country aims to access finance for initiatives that support climate change mitigation and adaptation. According to the Rwanda Environment Management Authority, REMA, the country has already generated over $1.5 million through the carbon market, with 29 projects registered.
The carbon market has provided an opportunity for Rwanda to access finance for climate change mitigation and adaptation projects. The country's efforts to access climate finance are critical in supporting its climate change response efforts. Dr. Nsengiyumva's participation in COP31 demonstrates Rwanda's commitment to addressing climate change and its impacts.
The conference provides a platform for countries to share experiences, best practices, and innovative solutions to address climate change. Rwanda is expected to engage with other countries and stakeholders to advance its climate change agenda and secure support for its climate change response efforts. The country's participation in COP31 is critical in promoting international cooperation on climate change.
The outcome of COP31 is expected to have significant implications for global climate action and the implementation of climate change commitments. The conference will conclude with a summary of key outcomes and decisions, which will inform future climate change response efforts. Rwanda's participation in COP31 reflects its commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development.
Key points
- Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva represents President Paul Kagame at COP31.
- Rwanda aims to secure sufficient financial support for climate change adaptation and resilience-building efforts.
- The country has generated over $1.5 million through the carbon market.
