Forestry Resources Management for Economic Growth

The Forests in Rwanda have historically played a significant role in the economy and livelihoods of its population. They provide around 86% of the primary energy source mainly as domestic cooking energy. They hold the base for the country’s tourism opportunities, which in 2016 generated USD 374 million and are targeted to increase to over US$ 800 million by 2024. They protect watersheds and downstream wetlands, supporting agriculture which accounts more than 33% of the GDP. Forested catchments supply a high proportion of the water for domestic, agricultural, industrial urban and ecological needs in both upstream and downstream areas.