From Bees to Forests: Partnerships Strengthen Sustainable Livelihoods at Gishwati-Mukura Biosphere Reserve

Rwanda marked the International Day of Biosphere Reserves with a two-day celebration at Gishwati-Mukura, highlighting how beekeeping, forest restoration, and knowledge-sharing are improving community livelihoods while protecting ecosystems. The event brought together national authorities, UNESCO partners, researchers, and local women beekeepers to explore the links between nature and sustainable development.

Rwanda joined the world in celebrating the International Day of Biosphere Reserves on 3–4 November 2025, with activities held at Gishwati-Mukura Biosphere Reserve under the theme of advancing sustainable livelihoods through conservation and science.

The event brought together national and local authorities, UNESCO representatives, conservation partners, researchers and community members, demonstrating how beekeeping and the restoration of indigenous trees can strengthen both ecosystems and economies.

Strengthening knowledge and partnerships

Dr. Marie Christine Gasingirwa, Chairperson of Rwanda’s National Commission for UNESCO, underlined the importance of sharing knowledge and research within biosphere reserves.

“Knowledge is food for the mind and life itself. It should not remain idle but be shared so that we grow together,” she said.

She encouraged women and youth engaged in beekeeping to collaborate, exchange ideas and apply research to enhance productivity and sustain community benefits.

Ir. Dominique Mvunabandi, Director of the Science, Technology and Innovation Unit at the Rwanda National Commission for UNESCO, reflected on the programme’s tangible impact.

“The event showed how shifting from traditional to modern beekeeping has transformed women’s lives, increasing their productivity and income,” he said.

Linking livelihoods, forests and climate resilience

The two-day celebration included presentations from experts, visits to apiary and the botanical garden, a honey-testing session at Rutsiro Honey Ltd, and tree planting in both the garden and the Gishwati-Mukura forest. Women in Women for Bees program received protective clothing, modern hives and other beekeeping equipment, along with environmentally friendly cooking stoves to reduce pressure on forest resources.

Emmanuel Uwizeyimana, Vice-Mayor of Rutsiro District in charge of Economic Development, highlighted how conservation aligns with local growth:

“Gishwati-Mukura is not just a park; it is an opportunity to enhance tourism, support agriculture, and create livelihoods for our communities.”

Community engagement for lasting impact

Anaclet Budahera, Director of Gishwati-Mukura National Park, noted that joint efforts between UNESCO, local authorities and partners have deepened understanding of conservation’s value.

“The partnership is helping communities understand the value of the park and actively participate in its conservation.”

Women in Women for Bees program, such as Uwamahoro Devotha, shared their experiences with modern beekeeping:“Before, I was afraid to handle the bees, but now I can work confidently and independently. I can manage the hive, produce honey, and support my family.”

At Rutsiro Honey Ltd, manager Nyirakamineza Marie Chantal emphasized the importance of continued training and investment.

“We need more trained beekeepers, especially young women, and improved hives. These investments will multiply honey yields and ensure a reliable supply for our factory.”

The celebration also featured participation from the World Resources Institute, whose representative Paul Hategekimana underscored the importance of community engagement in restoration efforts, and from Kigali-based entrepreneur Ngabo Aimé of Casa Do Café, who uses honey from Gishwati-Mukura in locally made products.

A model for sustainable development

The Gishwati-Mukura Biosphere Reserve continues to demonstrate how biosphere reserves can combine biodiversity conservation, scientific research and sustainable livelihoods. Through initiatives such as Women for Bees, UNESCO and its partners are fostering knowledge exchange, women’s empowerment and environmental stewardship.

Dr. Gasingirwa concluded:

“Do not keep a problem to yourself. Ask, share and collaborate. Solutions come when we work together.”