EPR HOSTS INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE DIALOGUE ON SUSTAINABLE ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

The Presbyterian Church in Rwanda (EPR) has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental protection, renewable energy, and climate resilience through a strengthened partnership with One Climate Rwanda and One Climate World Cooperative. The commitment was emphasized during a gathering that brought together church leaders, climate partners, and international guests to discuss sustainable solutions for communities across Rwanda.

The event was attended by delegates from the Anglican Church in Rwanda, moderators of EPR presbyteries, international partners from Germany and the Netherlands, technicians, and development stakeholders working in climate and renewable energy initiatives.

Welcoming the participants, the Vice President of EPR, Rev Julie Kandema, expressed gratitude to all guests and partners for their continued collaboration and support, noting that EPR was honoured to host them and encouraging them to feel at home within the church, while also extending appreciation to One Climate Rwanda leaders and its leadership for their long-standing partnership with EPR

During the gathering, Church leader highlighted the strong alignment between EPR’s initiatives and the objectives of One Climate Rwanda, particularly in climate action and sustainable development. Discussions focused on expanding collaboration in renewable energy and environmental protection through projects such as improved cooking stoves, tree planting, solar energy installations, water access initiatives, and community training on climate change adaptation. EPR leaders emphasized that sustainable energy solutions are becoming increasingly essential for churches, schools, hospitals, and other institutions operated by the church, while reaffirming EPR’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and promoting environmental sustainability.

Representatives from One Climate World, among them Andreas Neukirch, the Chair of the Management Board, and Dr. Ulrich Möller, Chair of the Supervisory Board, participated virtually in the meeting and underscored the importance of collective global action in addressing climate change. The organization also presented its vision and business approach focused on renewable energy initiatives and sustainable collaboration with faith-based institutions and local communities, describing the climate crisis as a challenge that concerns all humanity. The common goal as shared is to promote climate neutrality and access to clean energy. Therefore, the organization calls people to invest 1% of their income. The common sum will be distributed fairly between the Global North and Global South into renewable energy in order to act against climate change to save the planet for future generations.

The Leaders representing their churches expressed their appreciation for the ongoing partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting One Climate Rwanda’s mission and renewable energy initiatives. EPR leadership affirmed this commitment: “We are members, we will remain members, and we will meet all the requirements of the organization.”

The gathering concluded with a call for collaboration among churches, development organizations, and international partners to advance climate resilience, renewable energy access, and sustainable development for communities throughout Rwanda and beyond.