The new 121-hectare Nyandungu Eco-Park has opened in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, as part of the country’s efforts to harness eco-tourism through the restoration of biodiversity and the conservation of urban wetland ecosystems. The six-year initiative has also created approximately 4 000 ‘green’ jobs.

The park was created by planting 17 000 trees from 55 indigenous species in a previously degraded wetland area, and features include picnic areas, a medicinal garden, a fig tree forest, five catchment ponds, three recreation ponds, an information centre, a restaurant and 10 kilometres of walkways and bike lanes. The park is open daily between 06h00 and 18h00.

Juliet Kabera, Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), said: “Urban wetlands play a critical role in preventing flooding and addressing pollution and are home to unique biodiversity. As we face the impacts of climate change, wetlands will be a key ally to protect lives and livelihoods. We look forward to working with our partners to replicate the success of restoring Nyandungu in other urban wetlands in Kigali and across the country.”

Approximately €4.5 million was spent on the project, funded by the Rwanda Green Fund with support from the UK government, the Italian government through the Ministry for Ecological Transition, and the UN Environment Programme.

“The restoration of Nyandungu wetland to an eco-tourism park serves as an example of Rwanda’s efforts and commitment towards environmental protection, particularly for the conservation of wetland ecosystems as well as eco-tourism. We look forward to welcoming domestic and international tourists to create fond memories in this new biodiversity hotspot in Kigali,” said Zephanie Niyonkuru, Deputy CEO of the Rwanda Development Board.

“Investing in nature is the best investment we can make. By protecting and restoring our ecosystems, we create jobs, improve people’s well-being and build community resilience to climate change and extreme weather events. The Fund is grateful for the support provided by our partners in the rehabilitation of the Nyandungu wetland, and we look forward to the many environmental and health benefits it will bring for generations to come,” said Teddy Mugabo, CEO of the Rwanda Green Fund.

QA Venue Solutions will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the park and guided tours for visitors.

“Our aim through this partnership is to work side by side with the government to achieve the objectives set out for the Nyandungu wetland, while preserving the space and allowing the community to benefit from it through educational and recreational activities,” said Kyle Schofield, MD, QA Venue Solutions.