Roots & Shoots Rwanda
R&S RWANDA
Nurturing Young Environmental Leaders
Roots & Shoots Rwanda is a youth-led initiative empowering young people across the country to create positive change for people, animals, and the environment. As part of the global Roots & Shoots network founded by Dr. Jane Goodall and active in over 100 countries, we focus on local solutions to local challenges.
Through environmental education, community development, and youth-driven projects, we’re building a generation of compassionate leaders who are shaping a more sustainable and peaceful Rwanda.
Bringing together 500+ members of Roots & Shoots Rwanda
Celebrating World Wildlife Day in Rutsiro District
In partnership with G.S Nyabirasi, Roots&Shoots Rwanda marked World Wildlife Day in Rutsiro District, celebrating the rich biodiversity that surrounds us and reaffirming our shared commitment to wildlife conservation.
R&S Rwanda Collaborative Community Clean-Up with UNILAK Students
Roots&Shoots Rwanda collaborated with students from UNILAK for a community cleaning initiative, demonstrating the power of collective action in promoting environmental responsibility.
Roots&Shoots Rwanda Celebrates World Wetlands Day at Nyandungu Eco-Park
In collaboration with INES-Ruhengeri’s Environmental Club, Roots&Shoots Rwanda marked World Wetlands Day at Nyandungu Urban Wetlands Eco-Tourism Park, honoring wetlands as Earth’s natural water filters and exploring the diverse tree species that thrive in this vital ecosystem.
Empowering Youth for Environmental Action at G.S Remera-Rukoma
Roots&Shoots Rwanda spent an inspiring day with the Health and Environmental Preservation Club at G.S Remera-Rukoma, engaging students through interactive lessons, team-building activities, and meaningful discussions on current environmental issues.
Tree Planting for a Greener Tomorrow with Student Clubs
Roots&Shoots Rwanda partnered with various student clubs to engage in a meaningful tree-planting activity aimed at promoting environmental restoration and sustainability. This initiative empowered students to take active roles in protecting their environment while fostering a shared sense of responsibility for the future of our planet.
Building Lasting Partnerships for Environmental and Community Impact
Roots & Shoots Rwanda engaged with like-minded partners to explore long-term collaboration grounded in a shared vision of environmental conservation, youth empowerment, and community-driven development. As we continue to grow, we remain dedicated to fostering partnerships that drive lasting impact for people, nature, and our shared future.
Cross-Border Knowledge Exchange with Roots&Shoots Tanzania
Roots & Shoots Rwanda Representative engaged in a collaborative knowledge-sharing session with Roots & Shoots Tanzania, focusing on environmental issues and ongoing projects. This exchange fostered mutual learning, strengthened regional partnerships, and highlighted the shared commitment to environmental protection across borders.
Celebrating Jane Goodall’s Legacy Through Regional Knowledge Exchange
As part of the celebration of Dr. Jane Goodall’s birthday in Tanzania, Roots&Shoots Rwanda joined Roots&Shoots Tanzania in a vibrant knowledge-sharing session focused on environmental challenges and project innovations. The exchange honored Dr. Jane’s lifelong commitment to youth-led conservation and strengthened cross-border collaboration for a more sustainable future.
Sharing knowledge on environmental issues
Environmental education through environmental clubs at different schools
Campaign “Plant a tree”
Tree planting activities with R&S Rwanda club members on Forest Day, Kamonyi, Rwanda, 2021
Our Partners

Empowering Rural Communities in Rwanda with Sustainable Agroforestry Practices
Aims to empower youth and communities to improve livelihoods and environmental conservation through restoration and better land and water management while raising climate change awareness by training and sensitizing local people on sustainable forest management.

Protecting Eastern Chimpanzee Habitats Through School-Based Conservation in Gishwati-Mukura
Aiming to foster chimpanzee conservation by raising awareness through educational materials and Gishwati-Mukura National Park experiences, allowing students to experience wildlife habitats firsthand while engaging in multiple activities that protect chimpanzee environments and their ecosystems.

EVERGREEN Project in Rwanda: A Psychoeducation Project
Aiming to provide students and club leaders in R&S clubs with access to concrete social and emotional skills which enabling them to develop a vocabulary and level of comfort with mental health topics, and encouraging them to care for themselves, others, and the natural world around them.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Roots & Shoots Rwanda?
Roots & Shoots Rwanda is a chapter of the global Roots & Shoots program founded by renowned primatologist and conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall. This youth-led environmental and humanitarian initiative operates in Rwanda as part of the Jane Goodall Institute’s global network.
The program empowers young people to identify challenges in their communities related to the environment, animals, and human welfare, and then develop projects to address these issues.
The Rwanda chapter was established to inspire and equip young Rwandans to become compassionate leaders who understand the interconnectedness between environmental conservation, animal welfare, and human communities.
What does Roots & Shoots Rwanda do ?
Roots & Shoots Rwanda engages in numerous activities centered around core mission of environmental stewardship and community development including:
– Environmental education programs in schools and communities that teach conservation principles, biodiversity appreciation, and sustainable practices.
– Tree-planting initiatives to combat deforestation and soil erosion, particularly important in Rwanda’s mountainous terrain.
– Wildlife conservation projects, with special attention to Rwanda’s unique species including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and other endangered wildlife.
– Community development work that addresses human needs while promoting environmental sustainability, such as clean water projects, sustainable agriculture training, and eco-friendly income-generating activities.
– Youth leadership development through workshops, mentorship programs, and project management opportunities that empower young Rwandans to become agents of positive change.
– Cultural exchange programs that connect Rwandan youth with Roots & Shoots members from other countries, fostering global citizenship and shared environmental values.
How can I get involved with Roots & Shoots Rwanda?
There are several pathways to involvement with Roots & Shoots Rwanda:
For students and youth:
– Join or establish a Roots & Shoots club at your school or in your community
– Participate in existing projects or propose and lead new initiatives
– Attend workshops, training sessions, and special events organized by the program
For educators:
– Integrate Roots & Shoots methodology into your teaching curriculum
– Serve as a club advisor or mentor for youth participants
– Participate in educator training programs to learn how to effectively guide youth-led environmental projects
For professionals and adults:
– Volunteer your expertise and time to support youth projects
– Become a mentor to young members
– Offer professional skills like photography, grant writing, or project management
For organizations:
– Form partnerships to collaborate on projects aligned with mutual goals
– Provide financial or in-kind support for Roots & Shoots initiatives
– Help create opportunities for Roots & Shoots members to gain experience in your field
What are the benefits of being involved with Roots & Shoots Rwanda?
Involvement with Roots & Shoots Rwanda offers numerous benefits:
Educational benefits:
– Develop deeper understanding of environmental science, conservation biology, and sustainable development
– Gain hands-on experience with scientific methods through field projects
– Learn about Rwanda’s unique ecosystems and biodiversity
Leadership development:
– Build project management skills by planning and implementing community initiatives
– Develop public speaking and advocacy capabilities
– Learn collaborative decision-making and team leadership
Personal growth:
– Cultivate empathy and compassion through service to communities and wildlife
– Build confidence through successful project implementation
– Develop a sense of agency and ability to create positive change
Professional development:
– Gain valuable experience for careers in conservation, sustainable development, education, and other fields
– Develop a network of like-minded peers and professional contacts
– Build a portfolio of real-world projects and accomplishments
Community impact:
– Contribute meaningfully to environmental conservation in Rwanda
– Help address community challenges through collaborative action
– Be part of Rwanda’s sustainable development journey
Global connection:
– Join a worldwide network of young environmental leaders
– Share perspectives and experiences with Roots & Shoots members internationally
– Contribute to global environmental solutions while addressing local needs
How can I contact Roots & Shoots Rwanda?
You can contact Roots & Shoots Rwanda by email or phone number :
Email: rootsshootsrwa001@gmail.com
Call Anytime: +250 788 451 473
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Email: rootsshootsrwa001@gmail.com
Call Anytime: +250 788 451 473
Today, on 7th April, we remember and honor the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda🙏 #NeverAgain #RememberUniteRenew #Kwibuka31 pic.twitter.com/EP29BLPMsf
— Roots&Shoots Rwanda (@RwandaRoots) April 7, 2025
Yesterday was the fantastic way to celebrate #WorldWetlandsDay2025 in partnership with @RwandaRoots we had pleasure of bringing 35 members of #InesEnvironmentalClub to visit, learn and explore @nyandungupark #WeMustChangeTheWorld @INESRUHENGERI pic.twitter.com/UlE3tOM6z3
— INES Environmental Club (@ines_env_club) February 3, 2025
Roots & Shoots Rwanda in action! 🎉🌱 Celebrating Dr. Jane Goodall’s 91st birthday with impactful activities and a commitment to a better world!@JaneGoodallInst @RootsandShoots 🌍💚 #Happy91Jane #RootsAndShoots #HopeInAction pic.twitter.com/8FhU8sUMo4
— Roots&Shoots Rwanda (@RwandaRoots) April 2, 2025
Today @RwandaRoots conducted a public Lecture at University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK) @unilak_rwanda on #ecosystemrestoration . This is in regard to celebrating #WED2021. The event started by waste collection from the nearly marshlands. @REMA_Rwanda @IucnRwanda pic.twitter.com/hsfUjm5Svp
— Roots&Shoots Rwanda (@RwandaRoots) June 3, 2021