Over 700 Global Participants Gather to Discuss Agroforestry Solutions and Partnerships
The Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village has been alive with energy as Rwanda hosts the World Congress on Agroforestry (WCA 2025) for the first time on African soil. From October 20-24, more than 700 participants, including researchers, farmers, policymakers, and development partners, gathered to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and explore how trees can transform landscapes, communities, and lives.
This historic Congress is not merely a meeting of experts; it serves as a celebration of solutions, partnerships, and Africa’s pivotal role in global climate action.
What the Congress Means for Rwanda
Hosting WCA 2025 marks a significant milestone for Rwanda, demonstrating the country’s commitment to environmental leadership and sustainable development. Through initiatives like AFR100, Rwanda aims to restore two million hectares of land, placing agroforestry at the core of climate-smart solutions.
During the opening ceremony, Minister of Environment Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye emphasized the importance of agroforestry, stating, “Agroforestry is not just a technical solution. It is a shared endeavor that brings together people, disciplines, and landscapes around a common purpose: to live well with and from our land.”
Patrick Worms, President of the International Union of Agroforestry, highlighted Africa’s central role in this field: “Agroforestry as a modern science was born in Africa. Agroforestry as a practice is still most prevalent in Africa. And while agroforestry as a congress has traveled around the world, it is now coming home, and I am glad it is doing so.”
Worms also noted the challenges in spreading agroforestry practices, stating, “One of the reasons why agroforestry is not spreading more rapidly is not just because trees take a while to grow, it’s because we don’t have the right words to give that picture of hope to people who depend on farming for their living.”
Partnerships at the Heart of the Congress
The exhibition hall at the Congress showcased the collaborative nature of agroforestry, with partner organizations presenting innovative projects and research aimed at improving livelihoods and restoring landscapes. Notable participants included One Acre Fund, GIZ, CIFOR–ICRAF, ARCOS Network, Trócaire, Rwanda Mountain Tea, LuxDev, Rwanda Forestry Authority, Rwanda Green Fund (FONERWA), and the European Union (EU).
These organizations highlighted various initiatives, from supporting smallholder farmers to financing green growth and climate resilience programs. The Congress underscored that agroforestry thrives when communities, policymakers, researchers, financiers, and private sector actors collaborate effectively, translating science and policy into real-world impact.
Seeing Agroforestry in Action
Delegates had the opportunity to visit Green Gicumbi and RICA Rwanda to observe agroforestry projects firsthand. In Green Gicumbi, highland farms integrate trees, crops, and watershed management, effectively restoring degraded land while enhancing livelihoods. At RICA Rwanda in Bugesera, dryland restoration and research activities demonstrated how tree-based systems can boost productivity, regenerate soils, and increase farmers’ resilience to climate change.
These visits reinforced the message that agroforestry is not merely a concept; it is a tangible solution for communities and landscapes alike.
Looking Ahead: Rwanda’s Role and Global Partnerships
WCA 2025 positions Rwanda as a hub for agroforestry innovation and climate-smart agriculture in Africa, showcasing the country’s capability to host global events while promoting sustainable practices. The Congress also strengthens partnerships with development organizations, research institutions, and financiers, fostering collaboration to scale agroforestry solutions, restore landscapes, and improve livelihoods.
As one delegate noted, “The Congress has brought together global stakeholders to accelerate collaboration and share innovations that can be scaled across diverse landscapes.”
Rwanda’s narrative is one of resilience, sustainability, and shared growth. Hosting the World Congress on Agroforestry is more than a scientific or environmental milestone; it signals to the world that Rwanda leads by example, translating progress into lessons visible to all. Every exhibition booth, field visit, and partnership showcased during the Congress contributes to Rwanda’s broader narrative that climate-smart agriculture and environmental stewardship are central to its identity and future.
Key Points
- WCA 2025 marks the first World Congress on Agroforestry held in Africa.
- Over 700 participants from various sectors gathered to share knowledge and innovations.
- Rwanda aims to restore two million hectares of land through initiatives like AFR100.
- The Congress emphasizes the importance of partnerships in advancing agroforestry.
- Delegates observed successful agroforestry projects in Green Gicumbi and RICA Rwanda.
- Rwanda positions itself as a leader in agroforestry and climate-smart agriculture.
Sources: Rwanda's hosting of World Congress on Agroforestry is more than environmental milestone
