From October 9th to 15th, 2025, Abu Dhabi is proudly hosting the IUCN World Conservation Congress—the world’s largest and most influential gathering for nature conservation. APEFA is honored to be represented by its Executive Director, Oscar Nzabonimpa, at this global forum, which brings together governments, Indigenous peoples, scientists, the private sector, and civil society to shape the future of biodiversity and climate action.
This year’s theme, “Powering Transformative Conservation,” resonates deeply with our mission to restore degraded ecosystems, empower communities, and promote nature-positive economies across Rwanda and beyond.
As the world faces the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, the Congress serves as a vital platform to accelerate collective action — from scaling resilient conservation models to driving inclusive green growth.
APEFA will contribute insights from our on-the-ground work, including:
🌳 Restoration of over 6,640 hectares of degraded land
🌱 Planting of more than 13 million trees across Rwanda
👩🌾 Empowerment of 289,700 smallholder farmers through climate-smart agriculture
💡 Promotion of clean energy and green entrepreneurship for sustainable livelihoods
APEFA’s engagements at IUCN Congress 2025
- APEFA’s Executive Director, Oscar Nzabonimpa, will speak at the IUCN World Conservation Congress on 13 October 2025, contributing to the session titled: “Accelerating the Transition to Sustainable Agriculture in Africa: Regenerative and Nature-Based Solutions.”
This high-level panel will explore how regenerative agriculture and nature-based solutions can accelerate Africa’s shift toward sustainable food systems. The session will bring together farmers, policymakers, researchers, private sector actors, and development partners to showcase on-the-ground success stories and delivery models that integrate regenerative practices into farming systems—enhancing nutrition, income, and ecosystem resilience.
Discussions will focus on practical approaches that are replicable and adaptable across the continent, while also identifying investment opportunities that can scale impact. With insights from IUCN Members, Commissions, government representatives, and partners from Eastern and Southern Africa, West and Central Africa, and the Mediterranean, the event will foster knowledge exchange and generate actionable insights.
Participants will leave with:
- New connections to networks that can amplify investments in nature-positive rural transformation.
- Concrete examples of regenerative agriculture in action,
- A clearer understanding of supportive policy frameworks, and
- New connections to networks that can amplify investments in nature-positive rural transformation.
2. On the same day, APEFA Executive Director Oscar Nzabonimpa will also attend the IUCN Members’ Assembly—the Union’s highest decision-making body—where members from over 160 countries vote on critical issues related to conservation and sustainable development.
We believe that collaboration and innovation are key to achieving global biodiversity and climate targets. The IUCN Congress provides an invaluable space to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and amplify Africa’s leadership in conservation. Together, let’s power transformative change for people, nature, and our planet.
