final report for eu funded community based climate change

DCI-NSAPVD/2013/299-906 1st July, 2013 to 30th November 2015

1 FINAL REPORT FOR EU FUNDED COMMUNITY BASED CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION PROJECT IN EASTERN PROVINCE OF RWANDA BY NBDF RWANDA AND RECOR

2013-2015

SUBMITTED TO THE EUROPEAN UNION DELEGATION BY GAKUMBA JOHN BOSCO ON BEHALF OF NILE BASIN DISCOURSE FORUM IN RWANDA AND RWANDA ENVIRONMENT CONSERVATION ORGANIZATION 2013-2015

FINAL PROJECT REPORT: COMMUNITY BASED CLIMATE CHANGE



ANNEX VI FINAL NARRATIVE REPORT Table of Contents

List of tables ........................................................................................................................................ 3 List of Photos ....................................................................................................................................... 4 List of figures ....................................................................................................................................... 5 List of acronyms used in the report .................................................................................................... 6 1. Description .................................................................................................................................. 7 2. Assessment of implementation of Action activities ....................................................................... 8

2.1. Executive summary of the Action ............................................................................................ 8 2.2. Results and Activities ............................................................................................................... 8 2.3. Sustainability of the action .................................................................................................... 41 2.4. Log frame ............................................................................................................................... 42 2.5 Cross-cutting issues ................................................................................................................ 51 2.6. Monitoring and Evaluation was ensured as follows: ............................................................. 51 2.7. Experience from the project implementation ....................................................................... 51 2.8. Materials produced during the action ................................................................................... 52 2.9. Contracts exceeding 60,000 Euros ........................................................................................ 52

3. Beneficiaries, Partners and Co-Operation .................................................................................... 52 4. Visibility ......................................................................................................................................... 53 5. Location of records, accounting and supporting documents ....................................................... 55



List of tables Table 1: Summary of project achievements and observations ............................................................. 10 Table 2: Updated Log frame matrix, highlighting the changes ............................................................. 42



List of Photos Photo 1: Steering Committee meetings held in Kirehe in November, 2014. ........................................ 17 Photo 2: Project launch at La Palast hotel in Bugesera District. ........................................................... 18 Photo 3: Training of trainers at Eastland Hotel in Kayonza District. ..................................................... 21 Photo 4: Photo 4Harvested rainwater used for watering vegetables in the kitchen garden in Munini village, Mahama Sector, Kirehe District ................................................................................. 23 Photo 5: Women fetching water from Underground tanks for home use. .......................................... 24 Photo 6: Different types of improved kitchen gardens established in the five model villages. ........... 25 Photo 7: Significant harvests despite the prolonged drought in Munyinya Village, Gashora Sector of Bugesera District. .................................................................................................................... 26 Photo 8: One of the beneficiaries giving testimony. ............................................................................. 27 Photo 9: Fruit trees resilient to drought in Nyamata sector and Rwimiyaga Sector. ........................... 28 Photo 10: Training on compost making Photo 11: Ready for use compost manure . 28 Photo 12: Mature goats for a quick reproduction Photo 12: Majority of beneficiaries were women............................................................................................................................................... 29 Photo 13: Tree planting and greening for ornamental and erosion control ......................................... 30 Photo 14: beneficiaries trained in installation of energy saving cooking stoves. ................................. 31 Photo 15: solar panels on the rooftops of beneficiaries in Nyamikamba Village, Nyagihanga Sector in Gatsibo District. ..................................................................................................................... 32 Photo 16: Lit house of one of the beneficiaries in Gatabe 1 of Rwimiyaga Sector in Nyagatare District................................................................................................................................................ 33 Photo 17: National Fairs and Exhibition session at la Palisse Hotel, Nyandungu. ................................ 37 Photo 18: Exhibition tables and posters from partners during national conference and fair/exhibition................................................................................................................................................ 37



List of figures Figure 1: Steps for development of the indicator tools. ...................................................................... 20



List of acronyms used in the report CBCCA Community Based Climate Change Adaptation EU European Union FAO Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UNITED NATIONS EDPRS Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy ENR Environment and Natural Resources REMA Rwanda Environment Management Authority NBDF Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda MINAGRI Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources MINIRENA Ministry of Natural Resources NBI Nile Basin Initiative NGO Non- Governmental Organisation PELUM Participatory Ecological Land Use Management PHE Population, Health and Environment VUP Ubudehe Vision202 Umurenge Program RECOR Rwanda Environment Conservation Organization WACCA WATER AND CLIMATE CHANGE SERVICES FOR AFRICA UNCCD United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization USAID United States Agency for International Development



1. Description

1.1. Name of Coordinator of the grant contract: JOHN BOSCO GAKUMBA 1.2. Name and title of the contact Person: JOHN BOSCO GAKUMBA 1.3. Name of beneficiary (ies) and affiliated entity (ies) in the Action: 3500 Households from 5

Sectors in four districts of Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare. 1.4. Title of the Action: Community Based Climate Change Adaptation Project. 1.5. Contract number: DCI-NSAPVD/2013/299-906 1.6. Start date and end date of the Action: 1st July 2013 to 30th November 2015 1.7. Target country (ies) or region(s): Rwanda 1.8. Final beneficiaries &/or target groups (if different) (including numbers of women and men): 3500 Households 1.9. Country (ies) in which the activities take place (if different from 1.7):



2. Assessment of implementation of Action activities 2.1. Executive summary of the Action

Nile Basin Discourse Forum – Rwanda got funding from Delegation of EU (European Union) in Rwanda to implement Community Based Climate Change Adaptation Project (CBCCA). This project is implemented in direct partnership with RECOR, a Non Governmental Organization with expertise in Environment Conservation and joint efforts of both local authorities and communities in the target areas. Beginning July 2013, the CBCCA project was implemented in four pilot districts (Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare) in the Eastern Province of Rwanda emphasizing on integrated approaches for sustainable use of natural resources in climate change adaptation and mitigation. The main objective of the project was to empower local communities and non-state actors in monitoring the impact of poverty reduction on environmental sustainability, adaptation and mitigation of climate change impacts. The project activities included development of climate change indicator tools, their dissemination and demonstration of climate change adaptation, mitigation and environmental protection practices at community level through establishment of pilot model villages in 5 sectors of 4 districts in Eastern Province (Bugesera, Nyagatare, Kirehe and Gatsibo). The project was managed and jointly implemented by Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda and Rwanda Environment Conservation Organization. A team of four field officers were hired and deployed at each of the target districts to supervise, support and mobilize the daily implementation of the project activities on the ground. Overall, the project directly employed 8 staff on daily basis. These were supported by consultants and service providers technically. The overall supervision was done by the Project Steering committee together with local leaders. The partnerships of partners and stakeholders in this project resided in the technical support for establishment of the model villages, joint planning, dissemination of data and information, awareness raising and capacity building at various levels.

2.2. Results and Activities A. RESULTS The success of the project was based on achieving the following specific objectives: 1. Empowering community groups and their leaders to make better decisions about poverty reduction and management of climate change impacts for environmental sustainability;



2. Capacity building of community based organizations to monitor climate change impacts and support sustainable poverty reduction; and

3. Encouraging greater participation of women in climate change adaptation programs. Key outputs achieved include the following:

a) Memoranda of Understanding signed between district authorities and implementing entities (NBDF Rwanda and RECOR) for official facilitation of engagement for successful project management. b) Detailed reports on ‘Community Based Climate Change Adaptation and Environment-Poverty Linkages in Rwanda’ were made publicly available. c) Capacity built on a range of indicator tools, and training manuals published and shared with stakeholders and development partners. d) Structures and sites supported in five sectors of four districts in Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare districts for the demonstration works on models for effective natural resources use and management to manage impacts of climate change and poverty reduction. These include models on energy efficiency and alternatives, rainwater harvesting, sustainable land use and management for agriculture, afforestation, skills development and animal husbandry. e) Dissemination of project achievement through National conference, exhibition, documentation (film documentaries, print media and electronic) for stakeholders, beneficiaries and development partners. f) Monitoring and evaluation carried out by qualified experts and reports shared with development partners.

B. Outcomes

1) Community based organization leaders, and local authorities in the four districts are able to monitor the impact of climate change in their villages and districts and have adopted appropriate adaptation programs mainly in energy, agriculture, access to water and land use and management. Ownership and continuity of programs has been achieved through established groups (cooperatives) of beneficiaries, income generation potential and engagement of local leaders. 2) Community groups have access to translated and accurate information and links with policy makers in order to influence decisions for mitigation of climate change risks, reduction of poverty and are meeting their own needs sustainably. 3) Non-state actors have access to a range of translated indicator tools and manuals that support work towards a sustainable future. 4) There is increased participation, awareness and dialogue on climate change at decentralized level with policy makers, the donor community, international and local organizations (MINIRENA, MINAGRI, REMA, RNRA, FAO, NBI, Experts, etc.). Debates and action planning on development of standard model village has become a required initiative in government institutions such as Ministry of Natural Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of local governments.



Table 1: Summary of project achievements and observations Action Indicators Project results Outcome Comments/

Observation 1) Leaders of community-based organizations are able to monitor the impact of climate change in their villages and to adopt appropriate adaptation programs

At least 3500 people have participated in the project; data collected and entered into monitoring system.

64 trainees acquired skills in monitoring of efficient use of natural resources for poverty reduction, adaptation and mitigation of climate change impacts. 5000 members grouped in ten cooperatives have further benefited at a secondary level.

Community groups and non-state actors are empowered to mitigate climate change risks through appropriate climate change adaptation activities for sustainable development.

Increased numbers of beneficiaries indicates the need for the project activities where more than 65% were women and youth.

2) Community groups have accurate information to take decisions to mitigate climate change risks, reduce poverty and meet their own needs sustainably. Non-state actors have access to a range of indicator tools that support their work towards a sustainable future.

2000 indicators toolkit and training manual produced; information made available through monitoring system.

Three film documentaries on appropriate activities on climate change adaptation and mitigation were produced and broadcasted on National television. Similarly, newsletters, brochures and posters produced 2000 copies of training manual and toolkit distributed among government institutions, donor agencies, partners and stakeholders and uploaded on website.

Increased public awareness and information on climate change adaptation and mitigation best practices/models at decentralized levels.

Publications and information materials produced as planned, however, stakeholders and partners continuously are requesting for more.



3)Establishment of pilot model villages where 70% of the participants were women and youth.

1,060 members of community no longer use paraffin, candles and firewood for domestic lighting.

Installation and distribution of 212 solar kits to 212 households was done during the project period.

Reduction of dependency on biomass Reduction of risks associated with pollution. Increased awareness on use of solar energy among community members. Increased savings on money used in buying lighting materials.

A great number of the beneficiaries and participants were women and youth groups (70%); this indicated that they are the most vulnerable groups to climate change and poverty impacts.

2,250 members of community in the five sectors of the four districts have access to clean water that is harvested from their rooftops.

15 underground rainwater harvesting concrete tanks were constructed for the beneficiaries. Each tank is 10 cubic meters.

Increased access to water during dry spells for domestic use. Reduction in soil erosion from roof water.



Increased awareness on rainwater harvesting.

500 households have established small compost manure making sites using the knowledge acquired from the project.

5 demonstration compost manure and learn-by-doing sites were supported for training of beneficiaries in the targeted sites.

Increased soil fertility and soil quality for sustainable agriculture. Reduction in soil pollution by use of chemical fertilizers.

Increased nurturing and production of fruit trees at the project sites.

The project procured well nurtured and improved seedlings of fruits totalling to 2,000. They are already producing fruits (mangoes, avocado and oranges). Also, five nursery beds were established to share knowledge on multiplying the fruit trees’ nurturing and production at the projects sites; hence, adding more than other successfully survived fruit trees.

Increased awareness on improved nutrition and climate resilient agriculture.

5000 members of community benefiting from agro-forestry trees planted during the project execution. Also, a number of nursery bed

At the end of the project execution, 21,373 agro forestry trees had reached successful growth and these are benefiting farms of 5000 members of community at the project areas. Developers of nursery beds for income

Increased tree cover, soil erosion control, and reduction of exposure to climate change hazards.



have emerged at many of the project sites since knowledge shared on their establishment.

generation activities are increasing. Increased skills and awareness on agro-forestry tree nurturing and planting.

1,615 households in the five project sites use energy saving cooking stoves and have been trained on making, maintenance and installation techniques of the same.

The project supported cooperatives and groups within the benefiting districts that are certified with making and training others on how to make energy saving cooking stoves. 1,615 members of communities were trained and also acquired the pairs of the stoves.

Reduction in biomass consumption and indoor pollution. Reduction of health risks on indoor pollution. Increased awareness among community members on sustainable use of biomass. Increased contribution and documented for the project to the IMIHIGO of 2014/2015 in the four districts.

Improved nutrition for 3,372 members of

The project supported the establishment of 562 kitchen/nutrition

Improved nutrition and efficient land use at



community in 562 households of the 5 sectors.

gardens for 562 households. household levels. Increased skills and awareness on importance of nutrition gardens among community members.

70 households are collecting waste for compost manure making and have diversified their activities through goat rearing.

The project distributed 70 goats to very successful participants to the project activities.

Increased resilience to climate change through diversification of income sources. Increased soil fertility from organic manure.

4)Documentation for information sharing, dialogue and influencing strategy on policy; publications and documentary film

Three documentary films produced.

More than 15 broadcasts of the film documentaries for the project have been aired on National Television (TVR), project achievements have been presented at various audiences from local to international venues and integration of model village and indicator toolkit content has been adopted into developing the national standard for rural household model villages (Ministry of Natural resources

Increased public awareness, integration into government programs for funding and information on climate change adaptation and mitigation best practices/models at decentralized levels.

There is great government willingness to support similar interventions and engagements.



has recommended that the stoves, solar kits, improved kitchen garden types, nurturing economically valuable trees, compost manure sites and rainwater harvesting be adopted).



Detailed activities and results Activity 2.2.1. Inception planning (July 2013 to January 2014) Upon receiving the funds, the Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda established a basis for engagement with beneficiaries, stakeholders and partners, and put in place mechanisms of effective implementation of activities on identified sites. The specific activities and results under this activity included the following:

a) Consolidating Partnerships; Presentation of the project concept to district authorities and partners, and Signing of MoUs.

b) Planning meetings with Steering Committee and Partner Organization, c) Purchases and Procurement of equipment (four laptop computers and printers, four Yamaha

motorcycles for field officers and their omnium insurance for one year and furniture including office chairs and tables),

d) Recruitment of four district field officers and a Project accountant.

The inception planning took longer than planned due to the fact that the consolidation of partnerships with districts was done during the period for parliamentarian campaigns and elections. This posed a challenge for organizing meetings with various districts authorities to discuss contents and operational framework of the project. This also led to delayed implementation of activities based on the planned schedules.

The basic importance of consolidating a strong partnership was to involve local leaders and stakeholders in the overall project management. A project steering committee was formed and it included representatives from Rwanda Environment Management Authority, Implementing entities, European Union Delegation as development partner, and district representatives as beneficiaries. Target districts for the project implementation nominated a representative whose role was to represent the interests of the development agenda of the district in the Project Steering Committee (PSC) which would continuously follow up on progress, give advice and monitor the implementation of the activities outlined in the submitted activity plan. The representatives also monitored compliance of project activities to government policies and effective resource management. The steering committee was composed of ten (10) members as follows: 1. Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda, NBDF RWANDA (2 representatives); 2. European Union (1) 3. Partner Organization (RECOR); 2 4. Districts of Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare (each has one representative) 5. Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA; 1)



Five steering Committee meetings were held since the project start as follows; 1st meeting was held at Greenwich Hotel in Kigali on 13th November 2013, 2nd meeting was a project launch at it took place on 19th Decemeber,2013 in Bugesera District, 3rd meeting took place on 10th April 2014 in Gatsibo district,4th Steering Committee took place on 19th November 2014 in Kirehe District, 5th Meeting took place on 25th November, 2015.

Photo 1: Steering Committee meetings held in Kirehe in November, 2014. All the steering committee meetings evaluated progress and gave recommendations on project implementation acceleration plans, sustainability and value addition. The steering committee meetings further proposed establishment of technical follow up schedules on the field by project coordinator to ensure adoption of recommendations made and increased community and local authority contribution to the project. 2.2.3 Project Launch The project was launched officially on 10th January 2014 in Bugesera – at Palast Rock Hotel in Nyamata sector in attendance of 34 participants representing multi-stakeholders; district authorities, partners, NGOs/CBOs/CSOs, FBOs, EU, and Academia.



Photo 2: Project launch at La Palast hotel in Bugesera District.

Results; publicity and dissemination of project details, learning from experience of other likeminded projects in the area and enhancement of collaboration and networking with other stakeholders in the project area took place. Introduction and orientation of project team to the stakeholder and partners in the project area as a foundation for collective advocacy and partnership through networking was also established.

Activity 2.2.4 Needs Assessment/ Baseline Study and Mid Term Review; (October 2013- May 2014) The general objective of this activity was to assess baseline information at the community level and measure the progress of achievements towards targeted mid-term expected results. A team of regional experts was sourced to conduct the assessment. The adverts for this assignment were published on the organizations’ websites, shared on the social media such as facebook, local and region networks of climate change experts. Among the submitted competitive offers, six (6) were reviewed by a technical committee made up of four (4) members from both implementing entities (2 from NBDF Rwanda and 2 from RECOR). Based on financial and technical offers' quality and experience, Choice Social Enterprises Africa consultants-CSEA was awarded a contract on 5th February, 2014 of 33,100Eur to execute activities. The team of experts together with NBDF Rwanda Staff, RECOR and stakeholders conducted baselines and needs assessment. The study conducted focused mainly on; baseline indicators/information with three components – socio-economic and demographic status, community awareness on climate change impacts, vulnerability and adaptation.



A questionnaire on basic indicators of welfare, information sources, livelihood/agriculture/natural resource management strategies, needs and uses of climate and agricultural-related information and current risk management, mitigation and adaptation practices, was implemented by CSEA consultants in 4 districts target sites with 100 households; 25 members of community in each district. The study achieved the following results: Specifically, the study provided the following results:

1. Indicators that allowed the project managers to monitor changes in the target districts over time. In particular, changes that strengthen people's capacity to manage current climate risks, Adapt to long-run climate change, and Reduce/mitigate greenhouse gas emissions as well as enhancing sustainable natural resources utilization.

2. It facilitated the understanding of the enabling environment that mediates certain practices and behaviors and creates constraints and opportunities (policies, institutions, infrastructure, information and services) for communities to respond to change.

3. It enabled emerging knowledge on the exploration of social differentiation: Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) Knowledge Attitude Perceptions (KAPs) of the community members – Youth, women and men. Baseline data for the project therefore became a benchmark for performance evaluation.

4. The study further mapped information that assisted in designing the project’s monitoring and evaluation plan, development of ToTs training modules and capacity building interventions and Information that would assist in identifying relevant policies, guidelines and frameworks for supporting project implementation, advocacy and sustainability. N.B. Findings of the study report were shared and validated by Steering Committee members, Partners, the European Union and Government representatives from target districts.

Observation Based on offers submitted, the budget line on expert work was allocated less funds as compared to amount of work planned, hence, the project management team considered looking into unused funds within other budget lines whose costs had elapsed their implementation timeframes such as on field officers, spare parts and supplies.

Activity 2.2.5 Developing Indicator Tools Based on completion of Needs Analysis and Baseline study, an indicator matrix and Training Modules -Toolkit on Community Based Climate Change Adaption Indicators for NBDF Rwanda CBCCA Project were developed and copies submitted to European Union Delegation and other partners.



Figure 1: Steps for development of the indicator tools.

Further to the above milestones, step 5 included training of trainers on how to use indicator tools (monitor and evaluate changes in community based indicators). Concrete dissemination plans and exploitation of these documents were done through a national fair and multi-stakeholder workshop, meetings with partners and stakeholders, national, regional and international events, e.g Nile Basin Development Forum in Nairobi, World Wide Views training in Paris, World Water Week in S.Korea, etc. Activity 2.2.6 Capacity Building and Community empowerment The capacity building was done in two phases (primary and secondary) where direct training for first hand representatives and on field training during implementation of project activities respectively. Training of Trainers; on 29th -30th September 2014, 64 beneficiaries and partners attended a Community Based Climate Change Adaptation Training of Trainers on the use of training modules and indicator toolkit for best practices to community based adaptation for grassroots. The participants were hosted at Eastland Hotel in Kayonza District for two days. Trainees included community representatives, women, youth, and local administrators from the four districts where the project has been implemented.



Photo 3: Training of trainers at Eastland Hotel in Kayonza District. The training was conducted by two main experts from CSEA on community based adaptation practices on use of indicator tools and climate resilient agriculture mechanisms for grassroots. The facilitators during the sessions were the project management team (Coordinator and assistant). Training content emphasized on dissemination of translated materials of indicator tools and training modules on water resources, forestry, clean energy, organic agriculture, income generation, erosion control and land use as well as biomass consumption reduction as means of climate resilience and mitigation. Testimonies were heard from beneficiaries and stakeholders on implemented climate resilient best practices, challenges faced and possible solutions. Additionally, from the testimonies and discussions of the trainees, modifications and improvement of kitchen gardens designs were made. Use of household solar kits installations were suggested instead of communal installations for the project.



Activity 2.3.7 Establishment and support of model villages (January 2014 -June 2015). This activity was implemented in partnership with Rwanda Environment Conservation Organization (RECOR); MoU was established on 1st December 2013. An integrated set of activities were recommended to showcase best practices for establishing a model for a climate resilient household. The key interventions were based on the needs assessment which recommended that water scarcity, food insecurity, high biomass consumption, lack of electricity, poor farming methods, deforestation, and low adaptation capacity should have been attended to for piloting. RECOR was contracted to carry out mainly; rain water harvesting, kitchen garden establishment, energy saving stoves, agro-forestry, compost making and goats’ distribution. The solar component was spearheaded for its implementation by the Nile Basin Discourse Forum together with local authorities to ensure safety and maintenance of equipment. Previously, it had been planned that 2 model villages per district would be set up hence, a total of 8 villages (for the four districts). However, during planning meetings of the first project steering committee held at Greenwich Hotel in Kigali on 13th November 2013, and after review of available budget and planned coverage together with district authorities, it was recommended that the number of model villages is reduced from eight to five in order to increase and maximize impact and visibility rather than scattering them. The implemented activities consist of rain water harvesting, agro forestry, improved human resettlements and land use, and environmental protection, and improved agro-productivity through use of organic manure and zero grazing for income generation, promote use of energy-saving stoves to reduce deforestation and biomass consumption, and the promotion of the use of clean energy like solar. Conclusively, the partnership of RECOR in this project was concretized in the establishment of the 5 model villages. The constant droughts, land use challenges and famine in benefiting villages required integrated crop husbandry skills, water harvesting and intensive agro-forestry skills for communities to eradicate poverty and adaptation to climate changes.

1. Rain water harvesting Through the implementing partner, the project hired and awarded a contracted to ANA LTD to 15 construct the underground water tanks in the districts of Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare at a cost of 22,974,069RWF (25,498.41EUR). Fifteen underground rain water harvesting tanks with a capacity of 10m3 were built in the model villages to provide 75 households with water. Water is fetched in less than 100 meters while before they walked more than 1km to find water in valley dams, lakes and rivers. Harvested water is serving 2,250 people in all villages, 1326 are women and 924 are men. Rainwater harvesting brought to the beneficiaries the following benefits among others: water provided is cleaner than one found from old sources, this contributed to reduction of



waterborne diseases. Furthermore harvested water has the advantage of reducing water bills for those who used to get pumped water rarely. Since construction of the tanks, there has been a decrease of soil erosion and water runoff in the villages which was an environmental threat. Retained water in the tanks is used in watering vegetables in case of unexpected shortage of rainfall, thus contribute to eradication of malnutrition and increase of community resilience to climate change.

Photo 4: Photo 4Harvested rainwater used for watering vegetables in the kitchen garden in Munini village, Mahama Sector, Kirehe District In each village, water committees were formed under beneficiary groups to easy equitable sharing of water, rehabilitation of tanks and replacement of spares when necessary. To ensure replicability and dissemination of rainwater harvesting techniques among the community, the beneficiary group and local leaders are the managers of the tanks and should ensure their maintenance through saving groups and Umuganda. Most effectively, the rainwater harvesting tanks saves time and energy for women since they are culturally assignment with fetching water for domestic use.



Photo 5: Women fetching water from Underground tanks for home use.

2. Improved Human Settlement; Kitchen garden establishment In all five villages 562 kitchen gardens have been established for serving 3,372 people including 1,786 women. The project provided with beneficiaries with vegetables seeds (beet roots, spinach, zucchini, eggplant, celery, amaranths, onions, cabbage, Leek and carrots), for ownership and replication purposes, community members contributed labor and materials for construction of nutrition gardens. 2253 Members of the households were trained on the importance of nutrition gardens at homestead, nutrition garden establishment, nutrition gardens maintenance (disease prevention and treatment, weeding, etc), how to target planting time in seasons and how to choose a type of nutrition garden suitable to local climate.



Photo 6: Different types of improved kitchen gardens established in the five model villages. The project management team promoted double dug type of kitchen garden to respond to the shortage of rain and water in the project area (Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare) for its quality of retaining water and moisture in the soil. The double dug kitchen gardens are more resistant to droughts and supply families with vegetables throughout the year even though they are more expensive but cost effective as compared to others. From small land in the backyards of houses, family members improved home nutrition and sold the surplus to cover other household needs among others school fees for their children, health insurance, clothing and contribution to construction of their own houses. The families saved money, because they are less dependent on community market for their home food, more details are documented in the case stories attached.

Slopes kitchen garden

Pot kitchen garden

Double dug

Mixture of slopes and double dug vegetable gardens



Testimonies One of the project area is Bugesera District. It is the most vulnerable district in climate change impacts in the Eastern Province of Rwanda. Below are the testimonies from the beneficiaries of the impact of the project and how it has really changed their lives.

Photo 7: Significant harvests despite the prolonged drought in Munyinya Village, Gashora Sector of Bugesera District. Testimony 1: Reference to the photo 7 above, Hadija Mukankuranga a resident of Munyinya village, Ramiro cell, Gashora Sector, Bugesera district cultivated green pepper along other vegetables. She is expressing how she changed attitude regarding cultivation of vegetables at backyard in all seasons unlike weather variation. She narrated that she benefited from the project activities; “Many of my neighbors don’t believe that they can grow vegetables in this dry sandy soil but now this project has proved them wrong. Making double dug kitchen gardens which have proved to save moisture in the soil, I have put much emphasis on cultivation of vegetables and spices. Vegetables and spices help both improving nutrition at home and generate income to cover other home needs. I really believe that I am going to get out of poverty and malnutrition due to my nutrition garden”. Testimony 2: This is a story of Mr Emmanuel Bimenyimana who is also a resident of Munyinya village, Ramiro cell, Gashora Sector, Bugesera district and is one of the beneficiaries



“I didn’t know how vegetables can be grown in the backyard of the house, nourish all the family and take a part of them to the market. But now, the project agronomist sensitized me to use household waste water to water vegetables, I can harvest them all the time even in dry season. Despite household waste water, I try to use a portion of water I use in cooking and cleaning utensils. From the guidance of the project agronomist, I have grown celery for home cooking and also sell to nearby market. From this experience, next time I am planning to grow more because growing vegetable is one of the tool to fight against malnutrition and get money in short time, So I will even try to cultivate them more than 4 throughout the year”.

Photo 8: One of the beneficiaries giving testimony.

3. Food security Climate change is a major threat to biodiversity, ecosystem services and human well-being. The global climate is predicted to change radically. This might result in both positive and negative impacts on horticultural crops. Tropical fruits – full of rich nutrients and health properties – are adapted to hot and humid environments. Many tropical fruit species might spread beyond their current geographical limit whereas some species might exhibit irregular bearing of fruit. In this context, there are some important questions that need answers: What are the key characteristics that allow farmers to choose a new crop that they are not used to growing? Are farmers already experiencing impacts of climate change? If so, what are their adaptation strategies? Are there new opportunities for capitalizing tropical fruit tree genetic resources that benefit human kind? To respond to above questions, the project supported families to plant 2,000 improved fruit trees resistant to climate variability. Beneficiaries received improved fruit seedlings with high production in short time. Each family received two grafted avocadoes seedlings (Hass specie), one mango seedling (Tomi) and one Orange seedling (Washington). A total of 500 families benefited from these fruit trees. After one year and a half only, the fruits started flowering whereas other fruit tree like papayas has supplied fruits and started changing nutrition status of beneficiaries.



Flowered Papaya Grafted mango and oranges are close to flowering Photo 9: Fruit trees resilient to drought in Nyamata sector and Rwimiyaga Sector.

4. Use of manure in agri-production To improve fertility and moisture retention in the soil, the beneficiaries were trained on compost making backed up with on site demonstration. The use of compost reduces the need for water, fertilizers, and pesticides. It serves as a marketable commodity and is a low-cost alternative to standard landfill cover and artificial soil amendments. Composting also extends landfill life by diverting organic materials from landfills and provides a less costly alternative to conventional methods of remediating (cleaning) contaminated soil. 5 composts of one tone of manure each were used to train 250 trainers and 500 composts were made at homestead level at own initiative from community.

Photo 10: Training on compost making Photo 11: Ready for use compost manure 5. Goats Distribution



In order to reduce vulnerability to climate change and to increase manure production, the project distributed 70 goats to 70 households in the 5 model villages, which is 14 goats per model village. Beneficiaries were excited to receive goats because they generate income and waste for manure into their soils. The selling of offsprings would help beneficiaries to cover health insurance and other home needs.

Photo 12: Mature goats for a quick reproduction Photo 12: Majority of beneficiaries were women 6. Land Use and Agriculture In each village one nursery bed has been established. The purpose of the nurseries was not only to produce trees but also to train beneficiaries in tree nurturing. At all sites, 2,165 community members were trained. Ornamental trees for beautifying villages and agroforestry trees were nurtured in the nurseries and planted in villages, in farms and alongside roads in neighborhoods. Produced trees are grevirea, croton(ornamental), calliandra, Acassia desmodium and carica papaya. A total of 21,373 agroforestry and ornamental trees were planted in 5 model villages (Rutobotobo 4466 trees, Munyinya 4830 trees, Gatebe I 3300 trees, Nyamikamba 5700 trees, Munini 3077 trees) we counted a growth rate of 85% which means that out of 21,373 trees, 18,167 survived from all kind of threats. In few coming years, we hope to have green villages with trees benefiting the community in various forms including fuel wood, timber, steaks for beans and more. Furthermore, beneficiaries learn how to establish nursery beds, which ensures replication of the activity after project closure.



Photo 13: Tree planting and greening for ornamental and erosion control

7. Sustainable energy 324 energy saving stoves per village were built, that makes a total of 1615 stoves in the five project villages for reducing pressure on the vegetation cover and reducing the time spent by 1615 households members on firewood collection. Community was trained on the installation and their use. The trainings have been of great importance because community needs to sustain and also refurbish them after the closure of the project. The energy saving stoves are locally made thus helped local cooperatives to earn money through labor. Other economical benefits are expected to flow to the end user, include reduction of the volume of energy used (it saves 70% of the firewood compared to 3 stones stoves), saving money spent on firewood if not time spent on firewood collection which can improve school enrolment. The stove is smoke less, reduction of respiratory diseases will be observed in families through stoves lifespan which is more than 5 years.



Energy saving cooking stoves installed Job creation for vulnerable people Photo 14: beneficiaries trained in installation of energy saving cooking stoves.

8. Solar energy distribution and installation The project distributed 212 solar kits to 212 households in the five model villages. The criteria for distribution was based on various arrangements which included; to be member of the target group, level of participation to the project activities, level of vulnerability, potential to maintain the solar equipment. The beneficiaries are primarily the most vulnerable among the target group whose participation in the project activities was visibly high and consistent. Based on this criterion, those mentioned above presented potential to effectively maintain and replicate the project activities. The list of selected beneficiaries was compiled by field officers jointly with cell leaders based on the existing and maintained project activities at household levels.



Also, through VUP UBUDEHE national program for job distribution it is expected those who secured opportunities to labor in construction of water harvesting tanks, establishment of nursery beds, establishment of kitchen gardens and compost manure site, and selling of surplus on harvested horticulture products from the kitchen gardens started saving schemes through their groups. This type of beneficiaries was not regarded so vulnerable; hence, they contributed to the cost of installation of the solar kits. A second category of beneficiaries were regarded very vulnerable and this included refugee families, widows and old aged people who were exonerated from any contribution whatsoever.

Photo 15: solar panels on the rooftops of beneficiaries in Nyamikamba Village, Nyagihanga Sector in Gatsibo District. The contributions facilitated to increase the number of beneficiaries from 175 to 212 (Bugesera sites acquired 82 kits, Gatsibo acquired 50 kits, Kirehe acquired 40 kits and Nyagatare acquired 40 kits) households. This also increased the security and sustainability of the solar kits since a valued key role accorded with a signed agreement of ownership. The solar kits that were installed, each has 15Watts, a battery, 4 lamps, socket, charger and installation cables. Each kit is affordable and costs a minimum cost of 120,000Frw.

Solar panel Solar panel



Photo 16: Lit house of one of the beneficiaries in Gatabe 1 of Rwimiyaga Sector in Nyagatare District. The solar equipments were acquired through outsourcing and advertising on the project website for experienced engineering and supply companies of solar equipment and related skills. Three submissions of unit quotations were sourced and negotiations on mechanism of supply, transporting equipment and installation since there were no ready funds. After considering the mentioned situations, through the project technical committee that reviews and approves service providers, it was successfully negotiated that MDG CONSULTING be awarded the assignment at a cost of 25,440,000Frw. 2.2.8 Final Project evaluation As a requirement of the final project evaluation, an individual consultant was hired at completion of field activities in late November, 2015 to assess the success and consistence of the project activities with the submitted activity plan in line with project mission. The draft report has been reviewed and comments made. The final report of the evaluation shall be submitted separately. The final evaluation was undertaken at the end of the CBCCA project cycle to provide an independent assessment of the overall project performance of the project. Using a mixed-method, but predominantly qualitative approach the evaluation assessed the project through OECD-DAC principles on development interventions; relevance, coherence, sustainability, effectiveness, efficiency and impact.

a. Findings: The CBCCA project undertook several activities that responded to the needs of the target communities.



b. Relevance Rwanda as a country is highly vulnerable to climate change effects. The project districts selected are among the poorest in the country. The pre-project studies established a lack of information on climate change and solutions to deal with negative effects of climate change and challenges of accessing clean water by communities. District development plans also stressed the need for clean energy (80%-90% of the populations use firewood as the main source of energy. The action of CBCCA was relevant to the sustainable development of the area.

c. Coherence: The objectives and activities of the CBCCA project were consistent and reinforcing of National policy and priorities on climate change adaptation. Access to clean water, afforestation, land consolidation, clean energy and increased economic activity are key priorities in EDPRS and Vision 2020. The project design demonstrated a high level of coherence; activities and outcomes were mutually reinforcing. For instance the goats supplied by the project contributed organic fertilizers for the kitchen gardens, which provided vegetables and thus improved nutrition. Low fuel stoves reduced on deforestation and time spent looking for firewood, increasing time spent on other activities. Fruit trees provided nutrition and income as the surplus is sold to markets.

d. Impact: Testimonies from project beneficiaries demonstrate the impact of the project on their lives; members of communities expressed satisfaction with the project activities, notably those that brought direct benefits like water, solar energy and improvements in nutrition and food security. Field visits also documented efforts on soil management through afforestation. Previously trees were planted but not cared for because people did not perceive direct benefits. With fruit trees, direct benefits were evident, and thus trees were cared for, mainly for the fruits. Perhaps the best indicator of the impact of the project, are non-beneficiaries who expressed a strong desire to participate in a similar project if the opportunity came again.

e. Effectiveness The CBCCA project reached more than 5, 000 people from 3500 households from 5 Sectors in four districts, established five (5) model villages, all this undertaken in a period of less than two years. This could not have been achieved without strong partnership with key stakeholders. The project was highly effective.

f. Efficiency: The project demonstrated a high level of value for money. Many activities that were mutually reinforcing were undertaken. These activities were undertaken at relatively low costs but with robust results. They included knowledge and skills products (studies, indicator tools, modules for training, training) dissemination and partnerships as well as concrete activities that reinforced the achievement of objectives (rainwater tanks, composting, improved kitchen gardens, nursery beds and tree planting and others)



g. Weakness: The project did not foreplan an operation and maintenance for solar panel use. However this can be taken on by the district authorities.

h. Recommendations; Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda (NBDF): Use their participation in the Sector Working Group to continue advocating for climate change adaptation practices at the community level. Maintain field visits and engagement with districts to consolidate the achievements of the project. Continue dissemination of project knowledge products and lessons learnt to other areas in which they work. Liaise with Districts with a view of preparing a similar project. Districts Authorities; Continue oversight of project activities Increase participation of communities in similar project activities by mainstreaming uptake of CBCCA project outcomes in traditional practices of umuganda, ubudehe. Call on other communities to learn from the model villages established by the project. Scale up project outcomes to other villages that did not participate. Liaise with NBDF with a view of preparing a similar project EU Delegation; Support similar projects; they increase visibility, and provide value for money. 2.2.9 National Conference, Exhibition and Closure of project As a measure for continuity of the Community Based Climate Change Adaptation strategies for visibility, dissemination, dialogue and policy influence, and fundraising, a national conference and exhibition was among the project components. Between 26th and 27th November 2015, the Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda together with its partners; namely RECOR, PELUM, OXFAM and French Embassy in Rwanda jointly organized and showcased their interventions for climate resilience in Rwanda. Representatives of Government institutions such as Rwanda Environment Management Authority and Meteorological Center also made remarkable in put through presentations. The Nile Basin Initiative through one of NELSAP’s project managers also make key note messages on their initiatives along the Kagera Basin where the CBCCA project was implemented. The event was officially opened by Mr. MUSONI Didace who was representative from the Meteorological Center of the Government of Rwanda. The conference brought together over 100 participants(women, men and youth) from different Government Institutions, District Authorities, International and Local NGOs, Embassy representatives, CBOs representatives, media houses, staff of



both Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda members, staff and implementing partners such as local communities, Rwanda Environment Conservation Organization and many others. Theme, was 'enhancing effective community based adaptation to climate change'. The sectors of representation were among others from policy makers and implementers in water, forestry, agriculture, academia, land and climate change. Rationale of conference The conference was organized based on the fact that climate change is one of the most important environmental, social and economic issues facing Rwanda today. Despite growing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, some impacts such as higher temperatures, more intense rain, droughts are now inevitable. We must plan for and adapt to these changes, to minimize the negative impacts and enhance the benefits to natural systems, societies, and human activities and well-being. The conference attracted representatives from government institutions, International and local NGOs, representatives of beneficiaries from five model villages of the four districts (Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare). On behalf of Rwandan Government, the Meteorological Department representative highlighted on Rwanda’s current weather and climate data infrastructure, and representative from Rwanda Environmental Management Authority highlighted briefly on priority in the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) prepared at Government level to COP21 in the different sectors of development. For International Organizations, OXFAM through its partner and beneficiary PELUM (Participatory Ecological Land Use Management) coordinator presented activities of their organization in promoting organic farming and use of indigenous seeds. Regionally, the Nile Basin Initiative representative explained the role of communities in developing the whole Nile Region in a changing climate through existing opportunities. Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda, a representative of the Civil Society and project management presented achievements and strategic way forward for the outgoing project, while representatives from the districts of Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare together with the communities representatives and beneficiaries testified on how they benefited from kitchen gardens, rainwater harvesting, trainings on indicator toolkit usage and manuals, benefits of solar energy and energy saving stoves, fruit trees resilient to drought, compost manure making in increasing soil fertility as well as agro-forestry which was recommended for improved soil erosion control and shade provision. Institutions like European Union, French Embassy, ActionAid, USAID Land Project, WACCA and many others commended the great work that was exhibited in the CBCCA Project linkages to various sectors and appreciable engagement of vulnerable beneficiary groups especially women and youth groups in the four districts.



Photo 17: National Fairs and Exhibition session at la Palisse Hotel, Nyandungu. Documentaries and exhibitions Also, during lunch and tea breaks, participants had the opportunity to visit exhibition tables of NBDF Rwanda publications, poster presentations, newsletters, brochures, teardrops banners, commodities harvested by partners of OXFAM from PELUM, etc.

Photo 18: Exhibition tables and posters from partners during national conference and fair/exhibition. Various documentaries; (i) on causes of climate change from industrialized and less industrialized countries, (ii) a detailed film on project achievements showing field activities and community comments and testimonies on the overall project in the five project sites (showing voices and images of local authorities, community leaders and household members), partners and implementing organizations.



In the documentary, one of the interviewees mentioned for example Mahama Sector, refugees encroach the little water available while in other sectors where the communities benefited, it was mentioned that there is jealousy caused due to insufficiency of benefits. Meteorological presentation; an extraction from the representative of the meteorological he said that they currently stations located in different provinces to help them to know how the climate is changing. He presented the different indicators of variation in temperature shifting in four decades (1971-2010) and showed that the decade of 2001-2010 the temperature has increased by 2.60c He concluded his session by saying that “We have to protect the environment by protecting and using efficiently the present resources in order to save the environment and wellbeing for our young future generation”. Questions, Discussions and Recommendation A number of questions and answers by participants are: Q1: What was criteria of selection of beneficiaries?, what lessons were learnt?, benefits for men and women?, Involvement of local authorities?, what is the sustainability of project’s activities? Answers: The Project Coordinator elaborated that the criteria for selection of beneficiaries for the pilot project were based on Needs Assessment and Baseline which were carried out in the Eastern Province where the Akagera River Basin dominates to assess districts where impacts of climate change were extreme in sectors of natural resources exploitation. This concluded that pilots demonstrating Community Based Climate Change Adaptation practices were urgent in Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare districts with emphasis on access to clean water, forestry cover improvement, food security at household levels to combat malnutrition, energy, land use and management for agriculture and soil erosion control. The Community Based Climate Change Adaptation project recognized the effortless participation of women in establishment and harvesting of kitchen gardens, tree planting, installation and use of energy saving stoves, rainwater harvesting, looking after goats, greening activities, pot filling and pricking out seedlings in nursery beds while men participated in construction of water tanks, compost making, nursery bed construction and solar kits installation. From the analysis, women were more involved in the project activities based on the fact that they understand the benefits of most of these activities such as water, food and energy. The local authorities were very instrumental in mobilizing communities during the tree planting exercise during the Umuganda and energy saving stoves installation which are part of the district performance contracts. The project contributed considerably to the achievement of the IMIHIGO (performance contracts) of the four target districts.



The trialing and community contribution maintained the effectiveness of indicators for community capacity building during project implementation and contributed and adopted the best adaptation practices for grassroots resilience. Another strategy of sustainability was based on the promoting of community contributions to increase ownership and inexpensive techniques for community based adaptation. A framework for continual management of project activities after cease of funding was built through the formation of peer learning groups and self-help community groups as well as cooperatives. Q2: Does Meteorological Service of Rwanda have connection with agricultural institutions to provide warning to the farmers that a given disaster or hazard may happen for the preparedness of the community to adapt to that hazard or disaster? Is there any indigenous knowledge which can help community to predict the hazards or disaster? Answer: The Meteorological Service of Rwanda’s representative explained that they have contact with Ministry of Agriculture and they give all data it needs to help farmers, three times a day the information from meteorological service is given. He said also that Meteorological Center doesn’t use indigenous knowledge but the community uses it because even the months in Kinyarwanda show the climate event in each month. General Suggestions from beneficiaries The beneficiaries’ suggestions mainly focused on energy, climate resilient agriculture for smallholder farmers and water issues they are facing daily; they need sustainable water resources for home use, irrigation and for their animals. Beneficiaries emphasized on increased support in rainwater harvesting, water supply, tree planting and production, energy for solar and energy saving stoves. Another major suggestion emphasized on increased support to alternative income generation activities which would supplement the dependency on natural resources for improved livelihood. Recommendations, opportunities and way forward Towards the closure of the conference, various opportunities and other partnership strategies were recommended for sustainability of the project achievements based on sectors as indicated below:

1. Agriculture Sector: i. Prioritizing on existing opportunities; eg many community members have livestock and this

could be of great ease for adaptation projects. ii. Food security and fighting malnutrition as a climate resilience program iii. Emphasis on community based bio intensive programs; promoting of small farming practices

such that increase in production at all levels(Government should allocate budgets)



iv. NBDF Rwanda to liaise with Gilbert Kayitare from FAO and make a presentation during the Agriculture Sector Working Group through facilitation by Tarik KUBACH and Rutwika

v. Promoting well researched plants species that are resistant to climate changes 2. ENERGY SECTOR Increase and promote more solar energy and cooking stoves use for communities Government to offer subsidies on cost of solar equipment and train more experts 3. LAND USE NBDF Rwanda should take up advocacy role in land use planning and management for

climate resilience-recommended to work together with USAID LAND PROJECT; representative commitment to guide the process for implementation

Small land use best practices in IMIDUGUDU (cells). 4. WATER RESOURCES Promote alternative water sources e.g Rainwater Harvesting, uphill dam harvesting and

irrigation. 5. FORESTRY Promote planting trees with economic benefits; food security, etc Increase capacity of communities in establishing model nursery beds Planted trees are affected by pest and infestations; support is needed on this. (Sector

Agronomists should be of help) Engage young generation and educate them on benefits of trees Users and exploiters of trees; for medicinal should me sensitized and awareness raised. They

should be invited to such meetings 6. General and Crosscutting recommendations Technological transfer of opportunities and best practices for all sectors such as solar

powered irrigation, post harvest management systems for cereals and fresh agri-products. Early warning systems technologies for farmers that could alert of weather changes

Greater advocacy on best practices in all sectors; Use of organic compost manure, etc Integration of activities of the outgoing project such as rainwater harvesting, energy efficient

activities, climate resilient agriculture into the IMIHIGO 2016/2017 Advocacy for existing partnerships for transboundary and integrated water resources

management Mainstreaming family planning, population health and HIV/AIDS into fighting against climate

change impacts.



2.2.10 Financial Audit

The Financial Audit started early December, 2015 with a contract of engagement signed between NBDF Rwanda and EL and GCG Rwanda Ltd. The audit reports have already been submitted separately to the European Union Delegation. 2.3. Sustainability of the action The sustainability of outcomes of the project lies in the direct benefits to the communities. The target population expressed satisfaction with the project outcomes; these were demonstrable through improved livelihoods; nutrition, access to clean water, increased incomes and energy for lighting. The sustainability is also enhanced by the high level of ownership engendered by participation by the beneficiaries. The CBCCA project was highly participatory, bringing together communities and district leadership. The successes of the project are being owned and reported by districts in their performance reports. This likely to spur districts to maintain or improve these activities.



2.4. Log frame The project logframe maintained the originally proposed activities for the Community Based Climate Change Adaptation project. Table 2: Updated Log frame matrix, highlighting the changes Intervention logic Indicators of success Baseline

Achieved results Sources and

means of verification

Assumptions

Overall

object

ive: Im

pact

To empower community groups and non-state actors to mitigate climate change risks through appropriate climate change adaptation activities for sustainable development.

A greater proportion of non state actors and 200 community groups have be trained in semester 3 of year 2 and have taken an active role in fostering climate change resilience, monitoring poverty reduction and promoting sustainable development.

At the start of the project there were no similar trainings in the targeted areas.

500 community groups have acquired both first-hand and tertiary training during the project execution period in fostering climate change resilience, monitoring poverty reduction and promoting sustainable development.

Compiled reports from relevant participants, the four districts of the project, local NGOs, Joint Action Development Forums of the four Project districts, and Government Institutions within the sector emphasized in the Project activities (e.g. Rwanda Environmental Management

Districts and government institutions agreed to integrate the project activities of model villages into development planning.



Authority and Rwanda Natural Resources Authority).

Specific

object

ive(s):

Outcom

e(s)

Empowering community groups and their leaders to make better decisions about poverty reduction and environmental sustainability.

At least 3500 members of non state actors and community groups have increased access to tools to measure poverty reduction and resilience to climate change in the context of sustainable development. Dialogue between 250 non state actors and policy makers on the assessment of benefits of existing national strategies on poverty reduction, climate change and environmental sustainability.

Decisions were not based on environmental sustainability for poverty reductions

3500 members of non state actors and community groups have increased access to tools to measure poverty reduction and resilience to climate change in the context of sustainable development. Dialogue took place between 250 non state actors and policy makers on the assessment of benefits of existing national

Reports from media and field visits to community groups; baseline assessments, mid and final evaluations, progree reports; published tools made available to all stakeholders; local communities, local government, donors, government institutions, NGOs and CSOs, etc.

For all specific objectives: Non state actors and local communities were motivated and took part in positive actions.



strategies on poverty reduction, climate change and environmental sustainability.

Capacity building of community-based organizations to monitor and support sustainable poverty reduction and climate change impacts.

At least 50 non state actors have received training in the use of indicator tools, are able to train others at grasssroot level and use the tools in their own work programs 5 months before the final completion of the Project. Certificates awarded to successful attending participants so that they are accredited to train others.

This was the first of its kind of capacity building in the target areas.

64 non state actors received training in the use of indicator tools, are able to train others at grasssroot level and use the tools in their own work programs 5 months before the final completion of the Project. Certificates awarded to successful attending participants so that they are

Training reports, numbers of certificates awarded rating of training exercise and evaluations; feedback from non state actors on the use of indicator tools; training materials made available.

The partners provided an appropriate level of support and resources to the project.



accredited to train others.

Encouraging greater participation of women in climate change adaptation programs.

At least 1750 people, of whom 50% are women representatives, take part in national and local events to share ideas for improved national strategies on climate change; system established to collect field data used to advocate for change.

Women were highly vulnerable but with limited knowledge on climate change impacts on poverty.

3,250 out of 5000 beneficiaries were women which makes up for 65% of the total represented, and took part project activities to share ideas for improved national strategies on climate change; system established to collect field data used to advocate for change.

Records of events; feedback and evaluation forms; system established with data entered from field observations.

Women organisations (non state actors, gender policy organizations & government departments) were willing to attend trainings, implementation activities and used the results.



Output

s

Leaders of community-based organizations are able to monitor the impact of climate change in their villages and to adopt appropriate adaptation programs

At least 3500 people have participated in the project; data collected and entered into monitoring system.

Decisions were not based on environmental sustainability for poverty reductions

3500 members of non-state actors and community groups have increased access to tools to measure poverty reduction and resilience to climate change in the context of sustainable development.

Records of engagement through training, meetings and other events; monitoring system data were made freely available.

Non state actors and community groups participated in the project actively.

Community groups have accurate information to take decisions to mitigate climate change risks, reduce poverty and meet their own needs sustainably.

2000 indicators toolkit produced; training provided to 50 non state actors and 200 community groups in using indicator tools and integrating best practices to climate change; information

There were limited accurate information and no indicator toolkit at the start of the

2000 indicators toolkit produced; training provided to 64 non state actors and 500 community groups in using indicator tools and integrating

Publications and Copies of toolkit were made freely available; records and training evaluation; monitoring system data were also made freely

The value of project results were significant and partnership proposed with other organisations such as USAID Land Project, ActionAid,



made available through monitoring system.

project. best practices to climate change; information made available through monitoring system.

available.

PELUM/OXFAM.

Non-state actors have access to a range of indicator tools that support their work towards a sustainable future.

1000 indicator toolkits produced.

At the start, non state actors had no indicator tools

1000 indicator tool kits produced and distributed to non state actors

Copies were made freely available to non state actors. Copies provided to EU. And on the website of NBDF Rwanda.

Project partners provided appropriate support and resources to the project.

Increased participation and contribution in national decision making by non state actors on climate change and poverty reduction.

1750 people, of whom 50% are women representatives, have attended national and local events (workshops, trainings and fairs) to express their opinions

Lack of participation and contribution on climate change and poverty reduction

5000 participants in different local and national events.

Records of events and participant feedback.

Non state actors and community groups attended training, events and are using the results.



decisions.

Community Indicators Training Pack

Training pack available on project web pages

None existed before

Available online on the project webpage

Copies provided to the EU and other stakeholders. User feedback.

Activit

ies

Inception and planning. Needs Analysis. Developing the Indicator Tools.

People – Project Manager, Project Assistant, Accountant (Rwanda), Project Teams (Rwanda), Expert/Consultant Support Field visits and surveys in sectors of development

Eight (8) staff assigned to the project: Project Manager, Project Assistant, 2 Accountants 4 Field Officers, and Expert/Consultant Support hired to carry out baseline assessments, development of indicator toolkits and manuals,

Contracts for staff and consultants, and reports.

Qualified personnel were recuited.



Evaluations and Audit.

Documentation on Climate Change mitigation and adaptation practices in four districts in Rwanda

For non state actors and community groups – indicator tools and guidelines, web pages, recording system, support from partners.

There was no comprehensive documentation for the four districts.

Indicator tools and training guidelines, web pages, recording system, support from partners made available.

Publications available in resources centres, on website, distributed among stakeholders and partners, and the European Union Delegation.

Required support and resources were provided for the project.

Establishment and Support model villages activities for 2 site in each of the 4 districts in use of clean and renewable energy, agro forestry, rain water harvesting, manure use for agro-production and land use and management.

Procurement of materials for pilot sites and labour. Sites to be provided by local communities partners and their authorities

There were no model villages for climate change adaptation and mitigation at the project sites.

Five model villages in four districts were established on use of clean and renewable energy, agro forestry, rain water harvesting, manure use for agro-production and land use and

Field visits, reports with pictorial illustrations, video coverage, and testimonies from beneficiaries.

The number of sites was reduced from 8 to 5 sites based on agreements of the first planning meeting held with members of all the Steering Committee. The main reason was to increase visibility and impact rather than scattering activities as compared to the execution



management. budget. The decision was approved and documented in the minutes of the 1st Steering Committee whose minutes were shared to all members and the European Union Delegation through its representative.

51

2.5 Cross-cutting issues

Gender component; participation of women in the project was 70% overall, the project promoted equity and equality between men and women since roles were and works were distributed equally. The basic human rights to human livelihood essentials such as access to water, food for improved nutrition, energy and knowledge were key products for the beneficiaries. Communities were empowered to monitor the impacts of climate change on poverty reduction, hence, increased ability to participate in decision making processes. The project preached on sustainable land use and management in the agriculture sector. It also emphasised on best practices to forest management, soil erosion control, zero grazing and sustainable use of biomas. 2.6. Monitoring and Evaluation was ensured as follows: At Project level, Needs analysis and Baseline study highlighted benchmark indicators to guide

monitoring system. The collaboration letters were the official engagement/ partnership documents with district authorities to take part in achieving projected targets in each project site.

Field officers monitored and submitted weekly and monthly monitoring reports to the National Coordinator Office and district authorities. These were reviewed by National Coordinator together with Implementing Partner and their recommendations were taken to the Steering Committee for action approval. The existing membership of organizations; which is represented in each organizations steering committee and General Assembly render expert knowledge for joint development of programs.

The mid term and final reviews have been conducted by the CSEA Consultants and another independent individual Consultant (Mr. RUGUMIRE MAKUZA), highlited relevancy of the action points of the project objectives and progress of the NBDF- EU project.

The evaluation highlighted that there is great affinity for increase of project activities on a wider scale mainly in climate resilient agriculture, rainwater harvesting and supply, sustainable use of energy, increase of tree cover for both fruits and agro-forestry. Also, the outgoing project ignited minds of authorities and communities in the neighbouring areas, hence, continuously calling for support for the latter to acquire similar project benefits.

2.7. Experience from the project implementation The project has demonstrated the effectiveness in establishing partnerships between government and civil society organizations; this guided the project to consist government policies and district development plans. Furthermore, joint action planning, contributions from other partners and beneficiaries promote the sustainability of activities for example minimizing the benevolent giving of services which would have been taken for granted. Beneficiaries should be assignment a certain level



participation (either in-kind of financial). An example on acquiring of energy saving stoves and solar where communities had to take key role in installation charges, the kitchen garden structures were only supervised and guided by labour was done by beneficiaries as well as agro-forestry works. 2.8. Materials produced during the action A list of visibility materials and publications were produced for gathering and dissemination of project information. All the items were either shared by email, on webpages, during local, national, regional and international events; some were delivered physically to offices of partners and stakeholders and through media such as Rwanda National Television, print media and radios. These items included:

Brochures, Posters and Newsletters (1000 copies) Indicator toolkit and training guideline manuals (2000 copies) Film documentary films and DVD copies (1000 copies) Billboards (5) Monthly, annual and final project progress and achievements’ reports

2.9. Contracts exceeding 60,000 Euros None of the project contracts exceeded 60,000 Euros.

3. Beneficiaries, Partners and Co-Operation The major partners to the project were: Ministry of Local Governments, Ministry of Agriculture, Rwanda Environment Management Authority, Ministry of Infrastructure (EWSA on solar energy use and energy saving stoves recommendations), Rwanda Natural Resource Authority ( Integrated Water Resource Management with emphasis on rain water harvesting, Land use emphasizing on improved land use and consolidated land activities), partnerships with AEBR a faith based organization in Gatebe 1 in Nyagatare to establish compost, Energy saving stove cooperatives in the four target districts, links with Agronomists in various districts on land use, nursery bed establishment, kitchen garden establishments, and sectors where projects are being implemented. The District Authorities embraced the cheap household solar kits and vowed to integrate the clean energy component into the development priorities of the local communities. Specifically, below is an elaboration of engagement and cooperation of partners:



The project fed directly into districts monitoring systems of Joint Action Development Forums in each of the target districts of the Eastern Province of Rwanda. The project's action plan feeds into the IMIHIGO (Performance Contracts) Program for each of the target districts. At Sector and cell levels, in each district where the project is implementing the five (5) model villages, communal groups (that were formed into cooperative) have been set up to ensure ownership and continuity of actions after project phase out. It was also planned that upon acquisition of legal status of the established cooperative, they would become eligible for fundraising based on the Training of Trainers that was done. The same members of cooperative are being employed during development of the project actions to empower them with skills and also improving their lives through services they provide as income generation. This is based on the VUP UBUDEHE Program at grassroots level to promote poverty eradication.

4. Visibility The major objective of this activity was to ensure that the project results are widely disseminated and exploited by others, both non state actors and government. NBDF ensured that publications, training, media campaign programs, and workshops under this project carry the banner and logo of EU as the main sponsor. It was clearly indicated that the activities in question had received funding from EU. EU logo was displayed on documentation related to activities. In addition to use of the logo, field staff and partners were urged to take all appropriate measures to ensure that activities were well-covered by local print press and electronic media, and that all related publicity material, official notices, reports and publications explicitly acknowledged the EU as the source of funding. At the launch of the project and all other major public events NBDF Rwanda endeavored to invite EU representatives. NBDF also ensured visibility of EU logo at its office premises.

Results: for dissemination and publicity, brochures, posters, billboards, use of logos of donor

and implementing institutions, headed letters and newsletters were published and shared among stakeholders, partners and member NGOs to NBDF Rwanda.

A communication expert was hired to document a film documentary in three phases; periodical filming was done from the start of the project, mid to end of project and a DVD copy was compiled and shared with the European Union Delegation. TV Programs of partial filming were broadcasted on Rwanda National Television. The media covered some of the project activities in newspapers. Works of the project have been presented at international meetings such:



i. Regional Symposium “Climate Change Impact in East Africa: Linking Adaptation to Human Rights and Social Justice”, that took place from 27-28 August 2013 at Laico Lake Victoria Hotel Entebbe,Uganda;

ii. Advanced Level Training Course entitle Climate Change Education inside and outside classroom, organised by UNESCO between 8th -11th October 2013 at the Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa;

iii. Reporting on the progress of implementing the UNCCD in Rwanda, held between 24th -29th June 2014 at Saint Francis Xavier Home Center in Rubavu

iv. Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Backward Looking Joint Sector Review (JSR) meeting held on Tuesday, 26th November 2013 from 08:00 am to 1:00pm at Gorilla Golf Hotel Nyarutarama and field trip on Monday, 25th November 2013

v. Based on the CBCCA results, the Coordinator of NBDF Rwanda was requested to Presented a paper on Building capacity and raising awareness for a sensitive community on climate change adaptation in Rwanda during a training on Ecosystem Conservation for Climate Change Adaptation in East Africa organized by a Association pour la Conservation de la Nature au Rwanda, BirdLife International Secretariat and BirdLife International Africa Partnership Secretariat that was held between18th-19th September, 2013 at Hotel Chez Lando, Kigali.

vi. The CBCCA project achievements through various visibility materials were exhibited during the 4th Nile Basin Development Forum held in Nairobi between 6th -7th October 2014; http://nbdf.nilebasin.org/

vii. On 6th of June 2015, NBDF Rwanda based on its advocacy and climate change resilience experience, was supported by the French Ministry of Ecology through the French Embassy in Rwanda to coordinate a National Citizen Consultation on behalf of World Wide Views Roadmap to to Paris COP20. This worldwide event attracted over 10,000 citizens from over 80 countries of which Rwanda was part with effort and support of the EU funded CBCCA project and the French Government.

viii. The CBCCA National Coordinator, was invited to present a paper on Integrated Population, Health, Environment for Resilience at the POPULATION, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (PHE) REGIONAL CONFERENCE 9th to 10th September 2015 Tom Mboya Labour College, Kisumu, Kenya. Currenctly, based on this paper, NBDF Rwanda is among the champions of PHE in Rwanda and at the core of establishing a National Network for Integrated PHE for Climate Resilience in Rwanda. NBDF Rwanda's participation in the above events was inspired by the current EU funded project. Therefore, the project has attracted attention from local, regional and international likeminded institution during processes of designing, reviewing and managing climate change projects. It is also a case study for the basis of developing an Integrated Population, Health and Environment for Climate Resilience project that combines various sectors for climate change adaptation and mitigation.



ix. During the national Environment and Natural Resources Backward Looking Joint Review Meeting held at Hotel Lemigo on 11th November 2015 by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the CBCCA project achievements were showcased and presented. There were only two successful projects presented nationally and the CBCCA sparked off debates on developing standards for a green model village and its components. 80% of the project’s model village components were ranked the best option (solar, energy saving cooking stoves, rainwater harvesting, compost making sites for kitchen garden types, agro-forestry and animal husbandry). The meeting recommended NBDF Rwanda’s EU funded project as the best NGO delivering project and this is an establishment for confidence by Government of Rwanda. Also, various development partners are in negotiations for possible implementation partnerships with NBDF Rwanda. Further engagement for possible partnership and showcasing of the CBCCA project components with USAID LAND Project, ACTIONAID, OXFAM, PELUM, FAO and Ministry of Agriculture through AgSWAP are underway. Also, the French Embassy in Kigali has shown great interest in the CBCCA project and has been instrumental in establishing connections for it with potential in responsible French Government institutions for funding of similar programs in the near future.

x. WACCA – WATER AND CLIMATE CHANGE SERVICES FOR AFRICA has also contacted NBDF Rwanda for an opportunity to work together. This is also thanks to the CBBCA project success.

xi. Rwanda’s Expressions of Interest (EOI) to develop the Strategic Program for Climate Resilience (SPCR) for the PPCR and an Investment Plan (IP) for the FIP were both approved by the Climate Investment Fund (CIF) in March 2015. The Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda (NBDF Rwanda) has been identified as the key stakeholders to this project. This is also based on successful implementation of the CBCCA Project.

xii. Etc

5. Location of records, accounting and supporting documents The financial records are protected under intellectual property law; the documents are with Nile Basin Discourse Forum in Rwanda and implementing partner. During the whole project period, the implementation was affected by unstable EURO and FRW (Av. Exchange rate for year 1 : 902 while Av. Exchange rate for year 2 : ); this affected various levels of planning and funds allocated for key activities although the project management team had constant support from the EU finance and contract department to manage the challenges where possible.



A funds request of the remaining balance of 35,844.60EUR has been submitted together with financial report, expenditure verification and audit report. The European Commission may wish to publicise the results of Actions. Do you have any objection to this report being published on the EuropeAid website? If so, please state your objections here. NO OBJECTION Name of the contact person for the Action: GAKUMBA JOHN BOSCO

Signature: Location: Projected Implemented in Bugesera, Gatsibo, Kirehe and Nyagatare in Eastern Province of Rwanda. Date: July, 2013 - November, 2015 Submitted: To: EU Delegation, Kigali-Rwanda. 6th January, 2016. By: GAKUMBA John Bosco, National Coordinator NBDF Rwanda.

final report for eu funded community based climate change

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