Action pour la Protection de l'Environnement et la Promotion des Filières Agricoles (APEFA)

APEFA is a Rwandan non-governmental organization with 17 years of experience addressing environmental degradation and food security challenges. Its mission centers on empowering communities to combat deforestation, land degradation, and unsustainable farming practices, promoting a balance between agricultural productivity and environmental preservation. APEFA has a strong track record in implementing climate-smart agricultural solutions, improving watershed management, and supporting vulnerable communities to achieve food security and resilience. The organization is recognized for its participatory approach, equipping people with the knowledge and tools needed for sustainable land management and restoration.

The proposed project aims to restore degraded farmland in Rusizi District by scaling up climate-smart agroforestry systems that enhance water quality, food security, and biodiversity within the Rusizi River Basin. APEFA will establish fruit and agroforestry trees on smallholder farms, regenerate soils, reduce erosion, and boost agricultural productivity. The project will engage nearly 2,500 smallholder households—prioritizing women and youth—through participatory planning, Farmer Field Schools, and training in sustainable land management. Two nurseries will be established to supply high-quality seedlings and create job opportunities, while ongoing maintenance and monitoring will ensure long-term tree survival and ecosystem health. By integrating fruit trees into farming systems and linking farmers to markets, the project will improve nutrition, household income, and resilience, while delivering measurable environmental and livelihood benefits for the Rusizi River Basin.