United Nations Development Programme. Annual Report United Nations RWANDA. Unity in Diversity. Rwanda

Transcription

1 RWANDA United Nations Unity in Diversity United Nations Development Programme Annual Report 2008 Rwanda

2 Table of Content Foreword By the Resident Representative Foreword In brief 2 UN Reforms in Rwanda - Delivering as one 3 Fostering Democratic Governance 5 Strengthening Governance by Building a Sound Public Management 11 Ensuring Environmental Sustainability 17 Aid Coordination in Partnership with Donors 20 Combating HIV and AIDS 23 Engendering District Development Plans 25 The United Nations Volunteers Programme in Rwanda 26 Conclusion 29 Appendix A: Project Details 30 Appendix B: UNDP 2008 Programme in Figures 32 List of Abbreviations 33 This Annual Report 2008 is a Product of the United Nations Development Programme in Rwanda Production, Editing and Coordination: Margaret Gulavic, Nausicaa K. Kantengwa & Jean de Dieu Kayiranga Photography : Julie Pudlowski & Shravan Vidyarthi, Jean de Dieu Kayiranga, Emmanuel Karenzi, Laurent Rusanganwa & Cyrille Mwumvaneza. Editing, graphic design, and printing: Fuel Design Copyright: UNDP Rwanda Fifteen years after the 1994 genocide that nearly destroyed economic and social infrastructure, Rwanda s pace towards sustainable peace and development is no longer a dream. Since I arrived in this country, I have always been impressed by the strong will of the leadership to change the tides and instill hope in the people of Rwanda. With such a strong and committed leadership, Rwanda has a good chance of achieving its development objectives. UNDP is committed to the Delivering as One process and works closely with the Government of Rwanda, the UN agencies and development partners to push forward the One UN Agenda. Speaking at the on the occasion of the Informal Session of the Inter-governmental consultations on System-wide coherence, Ms Helen Clark, UNDP Administrator and Chair of United Nations Development Group said: In the last two years, we have increasingly come together as a system: together we are determined to deliver better results, more efficiently and effectively, in support of nationally-led and demand-driven development programmes. The UN - Delivering as One - is here to support the efforts of Government and people of Rwanda. We are not deciding on what to do, but supporting development programmes identified by Rwandans themselves. This is why all our programmes are aligned with the development priorities of Rwanda. The year 2008 has seen a fruitful cooperation between UNDP) and the Government of Rwanda. UNDP support focused on our comparative advantage, provision of qualitative advisory services and building synergies. Supported programmes included the enhancement of capacities in the justice sector, public administration and decentralization, public service reform, parliament, peace building, gender mainstreaming, energy and environment as well as HIV/AIDS. Emphasis was also put on enhancing effectiveness and capacities of key national institutions, mandated to promote state accountability, responsiveness and transparency. We are grateful to our development partners who joined our efforts to support the development of Rwanda. Their involvement and support has contributed to the strengthening of the capacities of many Rwandan institutions. That is the kind of partnership that can pave away for sustainable development and the attainment of the MDGs. Aurélien A. Agbénonci UN Resident Coordinator/ UNDP Resident Representative Cover page: Foreword: UN / Julie Pudlowski Page 2: UNICEF - Page 3: UN / Laurent Rusanganwa / Group Photo of participants to the DAO Conference with the Rwandan prime Minister Bernard Makuza - Page 3 (inset): UNDP/Jean de Dieu Kayiranga / Women weaving baskets at the Millennium Village, one of the project that supports the achievement of the MDGs. - Page 4: UN / Julie Pudlowski & Shravan Vidyarthi / A police officer shows training materials on fighting gender based violence - Page 8: UNDP / Jean de Dieu Kayiranga / A witness testifies during a gacaca session in Kigali. - Page 10: UN / Julie Pudlowski & Shravan Vidyarthi - Page 13: UNIDO / Kalenzi Emmanuel / A UNDP/UNIDO supported association exhibits its product during an exhibition in Kigali - Page 15: UN / Julie Pudlowski & Shravan Vidyarthi / Food processing industry is promoted as a way to increase the revenue of the population. - Page 16: UN / Julie Pudlowski & Shravan Vidyarthi - Page 18: UN / Julie Pudlowski & Shravan Vidyarthi, The National Volcano Park in the Northern province is one of the protected areas and home to the rare mountain gorillas. - Page 19: UNDP / Jean de Dieu Kayiranga / A woman making energy saving briquettes from waste. - Page 20: UN / Laurent Rusanganwa / Group Photo of participants to the DAO Conference with the Rwandan Prime Minister Bernard Makuza - Page 22: UN / Julie Pudlowski & Shravan Vidyarthi / Preventing Mother to Child Transmission of HIV is one of the key strategies to combat HIV scourge - Page 24: Cyrille Mwumvaneza - Page 26: UNV/Rwanda - Page 28: UN / Julie Pudlowski & Shravan Vidyarthi

3 2 UNDP RWANDA ANNUAL REPORT In brief UN Reforms in Rwanda - Delivering as one In resonance with the One United Nations reform to improve coherence and effectiveness of the United Nations System support at country level, and at the request of the Government, Rwanda was selected as one of the eight pilot countries for the One UN reform alongside Albania, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Pakistan, Tanzania, Uruguay, and Vietnam. The reform process coalesces all the country UN agencies under One identity, One leader and One programme promoting the development efforts of the UN Country Team. Through One Programme, as articulated in the United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) and the Common Operational Document, the UN Agencies in Rwanda are better aligned and more coherent in their support to the Government of Rwanda in achievement of the EPDRS, Vision 2020 and the MDGs. The reform process is in its nascent stage and there is increasing evidence of coherence and realignment of UN support to the Government of Rwanda. UNDP programmes are realigned with the UNDAF. Under this common strategic framework; UNDP support to the Government of Rwanda is based on Democratic Governance and Environment pillars. The performance of the UNDP Country Office in 2008 was encouraging - against a backdrop of the global financial crisis, in the drive for results, excellence and contribution to human development. The support of successful free and fair 2008 Parliamentary elections under Democratic Governance was a major achievement. Notable as well was the endorsement of the Joint Governance Assessment by the Government of Rwanda that resulted in a more coherent and comprehensive Programme for Strengthening Good Governance that was cognizant of the need to promote gender equity and empowerment. A key achievement under UNDP support in public administration was the ranking of Nyagatare District in first position during the 2008 Imihigo performance contract evaluation for best service delivery and management in the Province. In 2008, under the Poverty and Environment Initiative, the environment portfolio built the capacities of technical officers from thirty districts for mainstreaming environmental management in the district development planning process. Environmental awareness campaigns were held in Western Province districts as catalysts of change in raising environmental awareness at the local level. The United Nations Volunteers in 2008 provided support in strengthening the capacity of civil society organisations in their response to HIV/AIDS. In 2005, the Secretary General s report In Larger Freedom: Towards Security, Development and Human Rights for All laid out the strategic objectives of the UN reform reaffirming development as one of the four pillars of the UN system. The key recommendations of the report were endorsed by Heads of States at the September 2005 World Summit, reaffirming the UN s central role in development, through its normative and technical functions, and its role in the monitoring and coordination of development activities. In November 2006, the Secretary-General s High Level Panel (HLP) on United Nations System-Wide Coherence in development, humanitarian assistance and the environment, launched the Delivering as One report which identified strategies for creating a more coherent UN better equipped to respond to MDG challenges. Rwanda, at the request of its Government, was selected as one of the pilot countries for the One UN Programme. The report highlighted the strategic framework for creating a UN system that is better equipped to respond to the challenges posed by the MDGs. In the period preceding One UN, UN efforts were fragmented and uncoordinated. This provided the impetus for UN reform and resulted in Rwanda s selection as one of the pilot countries implementing the High Level Panel recommendations. At the UN Level in Rwanda, this led to the establishment of the One UN with One Leader, One Programme, and One Budgetary framework. The year 2008 saw the United Nations in Rwanda support the Government of Rwanda as One UN entity through the Common Operational Document, developing synergies across programmes, improving division of labor and avoiding duplication of efforts as the agencies focused on area of comparative advantages. Increasingly, there is more clarity, predictability and transparency in UN support to the Government of Rwanda as well as an increased focus on capacity building and advisory services. The impact of the reform will be realized in the long term. As the One UN looks to the future, there is a strong need for deeper collaboration between the respective agencies and the UN Headquarters in supporting the reform process. Additionally this calls for exploring avenues where Headquarter support will match the rapid pace of the country level reform as well as supporting development mechanisms that reinforce and promote national ownership and consolidation of the reform process in Rwanda.

4 ANNUAL REPORT Fostering Democratic Governance The Government of Rwanda is strongly committed to rebuilding and strengthening national capacities for good governance through institutional capacity building, law and order, anti-corruption and mutual accountability mechanisms. Good governance is critical for the Government and for sustainable development. Fostering democratic governance is one of the key pillars of UNDP support to the Government of Rwanda under the UNDAF result good governance enhanced and sustained. Under the leadership and commitment of the Government of Rwanda, UNDP played a catalytic role in 2008 and provided pivotal support to Rwanda s national programme for capacity building and towards strengthening key government institutions and further advancing the application of good governance principles in pursuit of stronger accountability mechanisms towards constructive participation in democratic structures and processes. The year 2008 saw a redefined and more coherent governance programme as a result of the Joint Governance Assessment endorsed by the Government of Rwanda. In recognition that good governance was a necessary precursor to the development of a responsive and accountable state provided to state institutions, the joint Programme for Strengthening Good Governance, supported by UNDP and the Department for International Development (DFID) aims at strengthening the accountability and responsiveness of key institutions to deliver on the EDPRS priorities. The key governance institutions supported were the Parliament, the National Human Rights Commission, the Media High Council, the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission and the Office of the Ombudsman. Further, cognizant of the promotion of gender equity and empowerment, the Programme for Strengthening Good Governance (PSGG), incorporated supported the National Women s Council to spearheading gender advocacy and mainstreaming in key public institutions in Rwanda. This mechanism established a foundation that would enhance the participation of women, and gender advocacy within democratic process and structures. Elections - A Decision Making Process Electoral Assistance has been a significant component of UNDP support to the Government of Rwanda under the Governance portfolio since The key objective of UNDP support to the electoral process was to develop a responsive and accountable state that enters into a social contract with its citizens and listens to their voices and allows itself to be held accountable for policy development and service delivery. In 2008, UNDP supported the National Electoral Commission (NEC) and the Civil Society Election Observation Mission (CSEOM) in the preparation and organization of Parliamentary elections. In 2008, UNDP provided technical assistance for the management of the basket fund for the National Elections Commission. The fund contributors were the governments of the United Kingdom (DFID), Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden (SIDA), and the European Union. UNDP technical assistance for the Parliamentary elections resulted in improved electoral management and facilitated the smooth conduct of the electoral process by supporting the production of 9,500 voter registration forms, the development of an accurate electoral roll and voter information for the NEC and an improved, computerised, central and secure elections management information system for improved management of the electoral process.

5 6 UNDP RWANDA ANNUAL REPORT A key achievement was the development of a national information and management system that supported administration of the elections through a unique and permanent identification mechanism. In 2008, through UNDP support to the civic and voter education campaign, 27,000 youth (including 6,263 women) from the local to district level were sensitized which led to an improved understanding and awareness among citizens. This contributed significantly to the citizen s participation in the electoral process and the increase of women legislators to 55% in the lower chamber of Parliament, making Rwanda the first country globally to achieve a very high percentage of women in legislative bodies. In support of ensuring transparent and credible elections through effective oversight of electoral processes, UNDP, in collaboration with DFID, CIDA and the Belgium Government supported the Platform of Civil Society. The support focused on building their capacity to undertake qualitative assessment of the electoral process. This enabled the Civil Society Platform to objectively evaluate the quality of the elections and the integrity of the results. The result was an organized, impartial, systematic, and professional monitoring of the 2008 Parliamentary Elections. Under this support, the Civil Society Election Observation Mission disseminated information on the electoral process. It provided briefings and a final report to diverse stakeholders including local media and development partners, demonstrating a better engagement and understanding of the electoral process. A media monitoring team was set up and preliminary and final reports assessed the media performance during the election. Programme for Strengthening Good Governance (PSGG) Supporting the National Parliament In 2008, in support of the establishment of accountability mechanisms, UNDP supported the Parliamentary Committee on Unity, Human Rights, and the Fight against Genocide in the preparation of the Draft Bill for the Protection of Genocide, which was approved by Parliament in Through UNDP support, Senators and Deputies from select Parliamentary Committees undertook field operations. The Committee on Economy and Trade hosted its Uganda Parliament counterpart with the objective of exchanging information on trade and tourism practices and how to exercise oversight functions. The Committees visited some border posts to assess the efficiency of Customs and Immigration Officials in facilitating trade and passage. The Committee on Gender and Family Promotion held discussions on the administration and utilization of the Women s Guarantee Fund at the Central Bank of Rwanda and the management of the Women s Fund in the districts. Thirteen districts: Rubavu, Rusizi, Nyagatare, Rulindo, Ngoma, Musanze, Gakenke, Gisagara, Karongi, Muhanga, Nyamasheke, Nyamagabe and Nyarugenge were visited by the Committee during this inquiry. A feasibility study for establishment of the Parliament Radio was undertaken and the findings presented to stakeholders. A key recommendation was the utilization of the existing national radio infrastructure, and currently, there are ongoing discussions on the establishment of the Parliamentary radio station by the end of As part of capacity building support, UNDP facilitated the training of technical parliament staff on international conventions, their ratification and domestication, on intellectual property law, and in the analysis of the Auditor General s reports. The Parliamentary Research Unit was also established to support the legislature in discharging its mandate through evidence based knowledge. Thirty new Deputies received IT training to support their functions as well as having utilised their skills in the discharge of their parliamentary mandate. The National Human Rights Commission UNDP and DFID support focused on strengthening the Rule of Law by supporting the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission. Consequently, the National Human Rights Commission Strategic Plan was developed, approved and is currently being implemented. At the decentralised and community levels, the National Human Rights Commission sensitized targeted audiences on human rights including teachers, local defence forces, religious leaders, and youth organisations, with special emphasis on the individual and legal rights of the traditionally marginalised Rwandans - the Batwa within the labour market and unions. Advocacy was complemented by human rights information dissemination through print media, radio, and NHRC staff participation in international human rights forums. The NHRC website was developed and updated to improve communication flow and increase awareness on human rights. In 2008, UNDP supported human rights advocacy by conducting training for thirty religious leaders from Kibungo Diocese, to enable them to promote human rights within their congregations. In addition, training was provided for syndicat (Union) leaders, targeting those unions that represent historically marginalized Rwandans: 795 members of COPORWA Association (Batwa clan) who have always been marginalized in Rwandan history had two days training on human rights. They were drawn from the Gicumbi, Rusizi, Nayamasheke, Muhanga, Kamonyi, Karongi, Kayonza and Rwamagana districts. In 2008, UNDP supported the training of human rights volunteers on the protection of human rights. UNDP also facilitated their outreach activities by providing 396 bicycles to improve travel to all the administrative areas at the grassroots level. To complement this, UNDP provided technical assistance in the development of a complaints data base with case handling software and support to the ICT department of the Human Rights Commission. UNDP also supported ICT and language training in French and English for the Commission staff, as well as the production of the NHRC Annual report in Kinyarwanda, French and English for wider dissemination. In terms of strengthening the capacities of the National Human Rights Commission to deliver on its mandate, UNDP supported procurement of human resource and accounting software as well as training on its use. Currently, the staffs are using the information system. As part of capacity building, a Commission staff member received training on result-oriented management in Québec, while two staff members participated National Human Rights Institutions and Regular Universal Survey Workshop and at the International Conference of National Human Rights Institutions. Furthermore, to facilitate its administrative functions, an intranet was installed and office equipment and stationery including computers and photocopiers were provided. In its capacity as the coordination mechanism for the Consultative Meeting of civil society organizations on human rights, the NHRC held the 60th Anniversary of Human Rights Commemoration. NGO representatives from the Consultative Meeting joined the Commission in the Kamonyi district in reinforcing the Universal Declaration on Human Rights message. A training workshop on monitoring and reporting for 36 NGO members of the Consultative Meeting was conducted in Kigali. Two NGO Consultative Meeting members participated in the 9 th International Conference of National Human Rights institutions in Nairobi. The NHRC also held the General Assembly for the consultative members. Supporting the Media High Council The Media High Council (MHC) is mandated to ensure that all political parties, organizations, and private candidates have equal access to the public media organizations, especially during the electoral period. The Media High Council, facilitated by UNDP and DFID, increased sensitisation on media freedom of key stakeholders who included central government officers, public relations and social affairs officers at the district level, security agents, the private sector and journalists, in preparation for the 2008 parliamentary elections. This was done through a series of sensitisation and training workshops held across the country. With UNDP support, the MHC produced informative programs for training media practitioners on election coverage and facilitating media monitors during the electoral period. Through a consultative process, the Media High Commission developed media regulations and a Media Code of Conduct guaranteeing equal access to the media for all political parties, as governing media conduct during the 2008 Parliamentary elections. Four temporary members of staff were recruited and placed in each province to monitor the effectiveness of the implementation of the MHC law and the exercise of media freedom during the electoral period. The Media High Council supported study tours for the Media Ethics Commission to Ghana, the Ivory Coast, Burundi, and countries that have established Media Ethics Commissions as part of their capacity building efforts. This provided them with the opportunity for learning from best practices, the establishment of a sustainable regulatory system and an injection of professionalism within national media institutions. UNDP in 2008 supported a Media Freedom Conference in the Great Lakes region that was held to discuss how media freedom could be institutionalised in the region. Participants were drawn from ten countries from the region and from the UK and France. The conference resulted in the establishment of a Regional Media Forum. UNDP and DFID also supported the Media High Council outreach through information dissemination on media freedom and media rights to the public debates and talk shows aired on radio (Flash, City, Rwanda, and Salus) and TV stations on press freedom. This has been ongoing and has gained considerable listenership and momentum. Supporting the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission In support for peace, reconciliation, and law and order, UNDP and DFID supported the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission in increasing the awareness levels of the genocide ideology and its negative effects in ten districts. This was done through targeted training and sensitization by the Commission. Participation was inclusive with women leaders and primary school head teachers. Fifty community members of the Unity and Reconciliation Commission in Southern, Eastern and, Northern provinces received training in conflict management, good governance and project management to support the outreach efforts of the Commission. Similarly, the NURC staff receiving training in public financial management and human resource development in order to improve their efficiency and to enable them to support the Commission in the implementation of its functions. The National Reconciliation week is held annually in Rwanda. In 2008, the National Reconciliation Week was held in November. The aim of National Reconciliation Week was to reflect on the national unity and reconciliation efforts made to assess progress and provide recommendations for future direction. It comprised district level events which included debates on unity and reconciliation, prison fellowships with prisoners, visiting the genocide memorial sites, and assisting orphans and widows based on the identified needs of each district. At the national level, events which included a workshop with religious leaders and a Gala Event showcasing reconciliation were held.. In addition, children s peace competitions on unity and reconciliation were held and seminars were held with teachers in the Eastern Province to sensitize them as regards genocide ideology reported to be prevalent in some schools. Building the Capacity of the Office of the Ombudsman The Office of the Ombudsman was established in 2004 to monitor transparency and regulatory compliance in all public sectors and works in collaboration with the Parliament of Rwanda in investigation and exposure of corruption cases. UNDP support complemented the Government of Rwanda s national efforts for capacity building and establishment of key government institutions. UNDP and DFID supported the development of a comprehensive national policy and framework that supports the Office of the Ombudsman in the discharge of its functions.

6 8 UNDP RWANDA ANNUAL REPORT UNDP supported institutional development of the Office of the Ombudsman by modernizing the ICT infrastructure and training 43 staff members on ICT, investigative techniques, planning, gender, a human rights-based approach, and the Ombudsman's Law. 110 media professionals also received training on anti-corruption. This resulted in more efficient management of corruption and injustice case loads and in building the Ombudsman team s capacity and confidence. To complement this, a complaints data base was developed and updated to ensure the tracking and accurate reporting on corruption matters. As part of institutional capacity building, four of the Ombudsman Office staff received support towards pursuing Masters Programmes. Similarly, staff members received support for proficiency in English and French and Public Administration. Four staff members undertook exchange visits and twinning meetings in South Africa, Botswana, and Ethiopia to identify best practices that could be replicated or up scaled in Rwanda in the discharge of their functions. At the decentralized level, 3,400 opinion leaders and local authorities received training at district headquarters on legal mechanisms including inheritance laws, and effective and efficient service delivery processes to strengthen their accountability and advocacy efforts as well as improve their service delivery to citizens. There was heightened advocacy on anti corruption through media broadcast and dissemination of the Umuvunyi newsletter to public institutions, schools and local leaders. A youth conference on fighting corruption and injustice was held to involve youth in anti corruption interventions as the future leaders of the country. Similarly, competitions on good governance were organised in 30 districts as part of the anti corruption advocacy outreach efforts. For UNDP, the year 2008 clearly demonstrated that the joint governance programme has led to improved coherence and utilization of resources, avoiding duplication of efforts in the governance sector - which was one of the key objectives of the Delivering as One Programme. As UNDP Rwanda begins the next programming year it is clear that there is a need for more inclusive programming at the decentralized levels and engagement of key actors, namely the Ministry of Local Government, the Governance Advisory Council and the civil society, who are important constituents in enhancing and sustaining good governance in Rwanda. Supporting the Justice Sector The objective of the Programme was to build the capacity of the Ministry of Justice and justice institutions in the administration of justice while increasing access to justice for the most vulnerable, and strengthen peace building and reconciliation through support to Gacaca. UNDP support towards the Justice sector focused on catalytic interventions such as the Maison d Accès à la Justice (MAJ) under the Ministry of Justice, community policing under the Rwanda National Police to be scaled up and replicated across the country. Strengthening of the capacity of the Justice sector in the field of justice administration as well as in the area of law enforcement: In 2008, with UNDP support, the Ministry of Justice revise the Succession Law of 1999 and it is envisaged that the revised Law will be ready in As a contribution to strengthening the capacity of the justice sector, and under UNDP support, 34 lawyers were trained in legal drafting, and the Ministry staff were trained at the Institute of Legal Practice and Development to improve their knowledge and understanding on legal aid issues which would contribute to improved service delivery in the justice system. Two town hall meetings were held, increasing the awareness of the Rwandan population on new and revised laws. of cases. The judges outreach activities which included the delivery of summons and delivering judgments in remote rural areas were also supported. Judges, registrars, and administrative staff received training on key justice areas including judicial ethics, legal issues, record and archive management and project management. Support to the Rwanda National Police in 2008 focused on training police officers on community policing and anti-corruption strategies as well as youth sensitisation to prevent crimes and genocide ideology. A total of 270 police officers in community policing strategies as well as 150 female police officers received training on Gender Based Violence offenses and their management. A key milestone and achievement of this support was the launch of the Women Police Officer Network and their subsequent study tour to South Africa to learn from the South African experience in community policing. Of considerable importance was the inclusion of a male member of the Rwanda National Party from Men for Change who are sensitised in women s issues in particular to support the work of the women s network within RNP. 90 police officers were also trained on anti-corruption strategies so overall a total number of 510 police officers have been trained. In support of heightening awareness among the youth in schools, 92% of the targeted schools were reached in 2008 and sensitisation activities successfully carried out including supporting existing anticrime clubs, discussions and role plays. Two anti-crime concerts were organised and attended each by an estimated 8,000 youth. Talk shows were hosted on national media-contact FM and on TV to sensitise the youth on anti-crime messages. Strengthening capacities and mechanisms for conflict resolution, peace and reconciliation promotion at district and sector levels The National Documentation Centre for the Gacaca process was rehabilitated and equipped with archiving software for effective retrieval in The Government of Rwanda demonstrated its commitment by providing a location in Kigali for the construction of a documentation centre for storing Gacaca documents which will be accessible to the public. To complement this, the centre was equipped with archiving software for easier retrieval. UNDP supported the acceleration of the transmission of documents judged under Gacaca to the National Public Prosecution Authority. The data from the cases were registered in the NPPAs database and in 2008, 36,329 documents were captured. The year 2008 saw improved collaboration between stakeholders involved in the Gacaca through regular quarterly meetings facilitated by UNDP. Increasing access of Justice to Particularly the poor and most vulnerable UNDP supported the administration and management of the pilot Maison d Accès à la Justice (MAJ) in Nyanza. The MAJ in staff capacities were built on mediation and conflict management, with one staff member attending human rights and law training in South Africa. Notable is that 152 people in Nyanza MAJ received legal aid. A data base has been established and is being updated to capture and document accurate figures of those receiving legal aid. Four additional MAJ were established in the Kinihira, Karongi, Rusizi and Rwamagana districts ensuring that every region of the country has an MAJ. They have been staffed and equipped and are currently functional and providing services. In 2008, the MAJ interventions included the Kabirizi Sector (Umurenge 2020) and Mpanga prison for legal aid in criminal justice. This resulted in the release of 72 prisoners as a result of MAJ intervention and support. Seven detainees received assistance in preparing their defense for freedom following irregularities in their cases. This was done in consultation with the concerned court. Further, the MAJ received 85 copies of judgments for prisoners transferred from other prisons which were now available to Mpanga prison- facilitating follow up and increasing options for justice to all. The Ministry of Justice, with support from UNDP, the Legal Aid Forum, the Bar Association and the Danish Institute for Human Rights, organized a successful legal aid study visit to South Africa with the objective of increasing understanding of the South African legal aid system, and how to establish and fund a well functioning system. The lessons from the visit will inform future legal aid interventions. The Ministry of Justice supported four legal aid providers in Rwanda: Haguruka, Ibuka, Avega, Ajeprodho, and the Law Students Association - the Legal Clinique of the National University in Butare with a total of USD 100,000 to support their legal aid activities. The Legal Aid Department of the Ministry of Justice held consultations with 46 of the 51 elected Abunzi (community mediators) which resulted in important recommendations that will further improve the Abunzi system. Through the MAJ, the most vulnerable members of the communities had access to legal aid that was previously not available to them. In 2008, UNDP was instrumental in the development of the Justice Sector Wide Approach (SWAP) and the Justice Sector Strategy and to date supports its implementation. With the changing aid architecture and the shift towards direct budget support, the SWAP mechanism will ensure coherent planning and effective resource distribution. In 2008, UNDP supported infrastructure development within the courts system by equipping the courts with computer equipment, supporting the process of archiving cases and clearing the backlog The final report on the history and the Gacaca process was completed in 2008 with UNDP support. Data for the final report has been collected and the report is near completion. The first and second volume of Gacaca was validated and translated with the translation of the third and fourth volumes available in Kinyarwanda and scheduled for translation in 2009.

7 ANNUAL REPORT Strengthening Governance by Building a Sound Public Management An accountable and transparent management of public resources, coupled with efficient service delivery and sound policies at national and decentralized levels, is a key enabling factor for sustainable development and achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. Sound Public Management improves and strengthens state functions, while also fostering dynamic partnerships with the civil society and the private sector in order to deliver quality services, enhance social and economic growth and ensure broad participation of citizens in decision-making. The year 2008 saw key achievements in Decentralization, Local Development, Inclusive Finance, Public Service Reform, Statistics, Economic Governance, Aid effectiveness and Aid for Trade. Within the framework of the Delivering as One initiative, UNDP initiated joint programmes with UNCDF, and UNIFEM to ensure synergy in development support to the Government of Rwanda. Key projects were the joint UNDP/UNCDF project to build an inclusive financial sector in Rwanda and the UNCDF/ UNIFEM/UNDP project for Gender Equitable Local Development. There was significant progress in the strengthening government institutions for improved delivery and partnerships with development partners in Civil Society Partnership was initiated through CIVICUS who guided the launch of the Civil Society Index Report. While recognizing the challenges such as the alignment to new aid modalities, improving service delivery in nascent public institutions, and the emerging reforms with the UN system, there was substantial progress in supporting the Government towards the achievement of the Vision 2020 and the MDGs. The partnerships initiated provide a firm foundation for future collaboration and UNDP support to key governance areas. Supporting the Public Service reform process In 2008, under UNDP support, the Government of Rwanda completed the capacity mapping and functional review exercise of government institutions. This was part of a deliberate, systematic and comprehensive assessment of capacity gaps by the Government of Rwanda. The exercises provided vital information on capacity gaps, interventions, available resources, and on national institutions spearheading capacity development initiatives. The functional review evaluated the reform process in the 70 public agencies and national commissions, analyzing the achievements based on stated objectives and impact on the functioning of those institutions and their effectiveness of achieving strategic plans, with the view to streamlining services delivery and the reform process. The conclusions and recommendations from the functional review led to a new restructuring process with the objective of refining the vision, missions, organizational functions and job classification of public institutions. UNDP supported the establishment of the Public Service Reform and Capacity Building Coordination Group, with the Ministry and World Bank as the co-chair. This resulted in the development of a common strategic framework guiding donors and other stakeholders in the sector as well as improving coordination of support to the Ministry.

8 12 UNDP RWANDA ANNUAL REPORT Supporting Implementation of Decentralisation In 2008, with UNDP support, the Ministry of Local Government conducted and completed capacity assessment in 30 districts. The assessment resulted in mainstreaming of capacity development into the District Development Plans. Simultaneously, UNDP strengthened capacity of the members of the district councils in development planning and management, fiscal decentralization and human resources management, as well as toolkits and equipment which included 70 laptops to facilitate their work. This improved the performance at the district level and resulted in Imihigo performance contracts being assessed twice in the 30 districts in a notable achievement. The performance evaluation system Imihigo in Rwanda is a cuttingedge innovation introduced under the leadership of the President of the Republic to set targets and assess regularly achievements in local government. The initiative has been instrumental in making important steps towards the achievement of MDGs. The performance evaluation system is now being extended to all government institutions at both central and local levels. Supporting Democratic Dialogue with Civil Society In 2008, UNDP supported the Institute Rwandais pour le Dialogue et la Paix (IRDP) in producing documentary films on the democratization process, genocide and its negation, revisionism, rule of law, job creation and the historical events in Rwanda. Debates and discussions were held at primary and secondary schools, and dialogue clubs established at the district and national levels which provided useful insights that informed the research. The debates provided discussion space and dialogue among Rwandans leading to improved understanding of historical and current issues that promote cohesiveness in society as well as the challenges and constraints. The recommendations from the debates have been published and disseminated nationwide. This contributed to increased sensitisation among the youth as champions of change for Rwanda. Supporting Community Development in Gicumbi and Rulindo Districts Under a joint UNDP and UNCDF initiative, to promote sustainable community development in Rwanda by improving access to infrastructure and basic services, 620,000 people in the Northern Province Districts of Gicumbi and Rulindo ( in 38 sectors and 180 cells) had improved access to infrastructure ad basic services. This support, in recognizing the role of the local government in development and poverty reduction, assisted the two districts in developing policies that would support financing infrastructure, access to finance and decentralized social protection. To complement this, UNDP also supported the Joint Action Forum and provided training in good governance, corruption, government financing, audit, public procurement law, and engendered planning and budgeting and the monitoring of the Executive Committee by the Advisory Board. A baseline survey on poverty, food security and gender was completed in 2008 and will provide an evidence base for community development planning. This provided baselines for the realignment of the District Development Plans to ensure their relevance to the EDPRS and the MDGs. UNDP further supported the districts in the preparation of the District Mid-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF ) and the 2008 Annual Investment Plan. Financing public infrastructure: In 2008, the partnership agreement between the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the Common Development Fund (MINALOC/CDF) was reviewed and the Local Development Fund envelope increased to US$ 4,620,000 with UNCDF supporting an investment plan for Gicumbi and Rulindo Districts though a funding of US$ 1,218,000. This local development fund resulted in the construction of a modern slaughterhouse in Rulindo, Byumba and Kaniga, a modern market in Kiyanza, a water supply to Rushaki and Kaniga, and radical terracing in Rulindo District, based on the identified priorities for public infrastructure investment. Under UNDP and UNCDF s support in increasing access to finance for vulnerable households, and in collaboration with Aquadev Central Africa, a microfinance sector assessment was conducted in Gicumbi and Rulindo Districts. This resulted in the Districts mainstreaming micro-finance into their 2009 district development plans. 15 boreholes were also constructed and borehole management committees set up to provide access to drinking water as part of infrastructural support. Supporting the Most Vulnerable Households through Social Safety Nets: In 2008, a study on a decentralized social protection scheme for the poorest and most vulnerable in Gicumbi and Rulindo Districts was completed and the recommendations will provide actionable recommendations for investment options for UNCDF. The recommendations also inform the ongoing discussions on decentralization and poverty reduction among members engaged in Social Protection support. A documentary on the project was developed and will be disseminated to the decentralized levels. Rural Development in Eastern Province In 2008, notably through support from the Italian Government and UNDP, Nyagatare District was ranked first district in Eastern Province during the 2008 Imihigo performance contract evaluation. UNDP supported the District in the implementation of the District Development Plan including local leaders capacities for improved service delivery, providing food security, income generating opportunities and access to safe drinking water. This resulted in improved living conditions for people in Nyagatare District. Under this support, the capacities of 46 district and sector staff in ICT was built through training, and complemented by support to ICT infrastructural development for the districts and 14 sectors. Four districts received internet connectivity to facilitate administration and effective service delivery. In 2008, KOAANKA (comprising 25 members) and CODETRAP Cooperative (15 members) received support for pineapple farming in the form of seedlings as part of the food security efforts. Similarly, 30 members of the Nyagatare women handcraft cooperative received 375,000 pennisetum plants. To complement this, a food storage facility with a capacity of 2,650 tonnes was constructed to support the food security efforts. Under UNDP support, 14 agricultural cooperatives in the District have progressively transformed their agricultural practices by adopting modern agricultural techniques. This has resulted in a marked increase in incomes that have enabled the cooperative members to rehabilitate their homes and pay their health insurance and school fees for their children. Supporting returnees from Tanzania: 326 Rwandan returnees from Tanzania received support in the form of fruit seedlings, agricultural kits for plantation farming, and pulses for local consumption and were settled in six sectors of Nyagatare District. This greatly contributed to improved food security and self sufficiency for them. More importantly, the returnees inclusion in the development planning process led to their successful reintegration as key actors in improving their livelihoods. Supporting Agro forestry: In encouraging agro-forestry, 14 agricultural cooperatives, which included maize, bee-keepers, passion fruit, mushroom, coffee and pineapple cooperatives in nine sectors received training and on-site technical advice demonstrations of best practices and study tours. They also received agro-forestry seedlings to boost their agricultural efforts. Support to micro finance and Private Sector Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): As support to microfinance, 37 cooperatives received training and technical assistance in credit management, and basic accounting and banking to enable them to manage their credit operations effectively. A commendable achievement is that the micro finance programme, developed through a revolving credit fund in partnership with Union des Banques Populaires, has significantly built up the technical and financial capacity of those cooperatives. The Union des Banques Populaires has the responsibility of managing, disbursing and monitoring the revolving credit and, in 2008, received a total of USD 161,740 and Euro 20,000. In collaboration with UNIDO, a number of SMEs in agro- processing from the Southern and Western provinces received support to improve performance of their enterprises through acquisition of better technologies and skills to organise production. The enterprises, most of which are cooperative owned have acquired upport on the basis that they would share the knowledge and skills acquired with others, to facilitate propagation and ultimately stimulate expansion of the private sector base, to integrate more micro and small enterprises into the formal sector.

9 14 UNDP RWANDA ANNUAL REPORT Supporting the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) tracks and monitors the economic development and poverty reduction performance indicators and is the repository of national development statistics for the Government of Rwanda. The NISR developed a strategic plan in strategic themes were identified in order to focus and guide the Institute over the next five years, from 2007 to 2011, namely: providing relevant, high quality statistical information to meet users needs; developing and promoting statistical advocacy and partnership; and building and retaining human capacity throughout the National Statistical System. The project was supported by the Department for International Development (DFID), the European Commission (EC), and UNDP through a common fund managed by UNDP, with the objective of strengthening the capacity of NISR, in the implementation of its strategic plan and in supporting NISR track the Economic Development Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS) indicators for Rwanda as well as monitoring the progress towards achieving the Vision 2020 and the Millennium Development Goals. This was in response to Evidencebased policy making Policy and socio-economic planning using quality and disaggregated data strengthened ; as well as to the UNDAF output, which is Institutional capacity for coordination and quality data collection, analysis, dissemination and use strengthened at central and decentralized levels. In 2008, under the joint partners support, NISR achieved the following results: NISR production of key statistics which included: a monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI), a quarterly Producer Price Index (PPI), quarterly Trade statistics, National Accounts Estimates for 2007, Labor Force and Agriculture in EICV2, Education Census report, Interim Demographics and Health Survey, and the Service Provision Assessment final report. Production of regular statistical publications, namely the Annual Rwanda Development Indicators (RDI) for 2006, the Rwanda Statistician, Rwanda in Figures draft report, and the East Africa Facts and Figures report. Significant progress in producing quality data by NISR - the new weights for the Price Indices were calculated, the rebasing of CPI exercise commenced in 2008, with the aim of improving the quality of CPI and publishing the rebased CPI in June The National Accounts rebasing exercise commenced in 2008 and will be completed by June NISR made significant progress in conducting the key surveys that started in 2007: Data collection and data entry for the District Baseline Survey were completed in all the provinces except the Northern Province; Data collection and data entry for the National Agriculture Survey were completed; Data collection and data entry were completed for the Child Labour survey, and Data collection in 52 schools was completed for the Child Friendly School Survey. A training needs assessment for NISR was conducted, technical assessments for all the NISR units completed and a training programme for NISR was developed. Toolkits - the Essential Skills Manual and the Training Manual for Financial Analysis and Management Reporting - were developed and in-house trainings conducted on Basic Statistics. NISR developed policies, systems and procedures in 2008 which included the Concept Statistics, Sampling Techniques, How to Conduct and Manage a Survey, Regression Analysis, Basic policies and procedures for financial management, Integrated Capacity-Building Framework, Employee Handbook, How to Prepare a Performance Contract, draft ICT Policy, How to Develop and Maintain a Statistical Website, and How to Develop a Fact Sheet. Making Trade Work for Development Trade is a precursor for economic growth and poverty alleviation and enhances a country's accessibility to goods and services, technologies and knowledge. It stimulates the entrepreneurial activities of the private sector. Trade creates employment, fosters learning, attracts private investment, and increases foreign exchange which translates into resources for sustainable development and the alleviation of poverty. In 2008, UNDP supported the Ministry of Trade and Industry in mainstreaming trade into the EDPRS to ensure that the stimulus for poverty reduction and employment creation was incorporated in national development plans and policies. UNDP supported capacity building of the Ministry to participation in the global economy as part of the Integrated Framework Initiative (IFI) (through which the WTO, ITC, UNCTAD, UNDP, IMF and World Bank combine their efforts with the LDCs to respond to these countries trade development needs). The Secretary General - Ministry of Trade and Industry is the focal point and UNDP the Trust Fund Manager on behalf of the Integrated Framework secretariat in Geneva. In 2008, among the notable capacity building achievements for the Ministry staff were the support to four members to pursue an MBA programme, strengthened analytical and negotiation skills for the NDTPF members to enable them to support the Ministry in the discharge of its mandate. OCIR-CAFE received technical assistance that enabled them to establish the Coffee Marketing Alliance. UNDP contributed to strengthening the capacity of the Ministry for reviewing and replacing obsolete trade laws and updating trade completion law through supporting assessments, studies on the impact of rules of origin, revenue and trade, a feasibility study for the participatory rural access to coffee washing stations and the DTIS performance review in all sectors, which were all completed. As a result of UNDP support, the EIF Secretariat developed a five year strategic plan through a consultative process. As part of capacity building, UNDP supported the Secretariat in holding forums with UNCTAD to share experiences on implementation of EIF programmes and practical implementation mechanisms with stakeholders Similarly, the EAC Common market Protocol negotiators and EPA s negotiators participation in regional meetings was supported. The Secretariat led a resource mobilization effort on behalf of the government for additional funding for the construction of rural access road to coffee washing stations. There was significant progress in ensuring that the trade sector capacities were developed in view of Rwanda s integration into the larger EAC trading bloc. There is need for comprehensive policies in support of the key drivers of the sector for a favourable business environment for investment and trade.

10 ANNUAL REPORT Ensuring Environmental Sustainability Environment is one of the two pillars of UNDP interventions under the United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF). In 2008, UNDP supported the Government of Rwanda in environmental management, improvement and sustainable management of natural resources and land in an improved and sustainable way towards meeting the EPDRS, Vision 2020 and the Millennium Development Goals. Environmental main-streaming in Rwanda s next Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS) and policy frameworks formed the core of UNDP support. In 2008, in collaboration with UNEP, UNDP supported development of a decentralized approach to environmental management in Rwanda. Under the Environment portfolio, national efforts towards biodiversity conservation were supported to meet national commitments to the Convention on Biological Diversity. Key highlights were UNDP s support to the development of the third Global Environment Facility (GEF) National Report to the Convention on Biological Biodiversity which highlighted key actions implemented by Rwanda in conserving biodiversity within the framework of national priorities and biodiversity commitments and obligations. Sustainable Land Use Management In support to the national efforts towards increasing environmental protection and use of natural resources, UNDP, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), focused on addressing the rootcauses and solutions for land degradation in four districts of Rwanda around the mountain agro-ecological zone: namely in Ngororero, Nyabihu, Burera and Musanze. The breakdown in rural services in the post-genocide period, coupled with re-structuring, had led to a loss of capacity in the provision of extension services for sustainable land management models and reinforcement of land management laws. In 2008, capacity needs assessment was conducted in the four districts (Ngororero, Nyabihu, Burera and Musanze) to define the strategic intervention areas. Four demonstration sites in each districts were identified and equipped with tree nurseries to demonstrate useful land management techniques to farmers. These could be replicated by farmers in their sustainable use of natural resources and land while conserving the environment. In support of the national efforts to integrate environmental objectives into national policies, UNDP supported the Ministry of Natural Resources in drafting the National Action Plan to Combat Desertification and Land Degradation. Once the National Action Plan is validated, it will form the basis on coordination of sustainable land management efforts and their integration within the UNCCD and TerrAfrica frameworks. As part of building ownership and ensuring sustainability, UNDP faciliated harmonization, alignment and coordination of the projects activities into the Rwanda Agriculture Development Authority s national strategic planning framework. The Poverty and Environment Programme The Poverty and Environment Initiative (PEI) is jointly implemented by UNDP and UNEP and aims at building the capacities of key selected ministries in environmental mainstreaming, and enhancing their understanding and analysis of linkages between poverty and environment. The Initiative supported environmental mainstreaming into policy making, planning, and budgeting, particularly within the Ministries of : Agriculture and Animal resources (MINAGRI), Local Governance (MINALOC), Infrastructure (MININFRA), Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN), and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, tourism and cooperative (MINICOM).

11 18 UNDP RWANDA ANNUAL REPORT As part of UNDP support for capacity building, staff from key ministries received training to improve their competencies for environment mainstreaming in the planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation processes, helping to prioritise the environment within the respective sectors with corresponding budgets. Within this context, in 2008, UNDP spearheaded discussions with MINECOFIN on development of a national environmental mainstreaming strategy with committed funding for national institutions. Substantive technical support was also provided to the Ministry of Natural Resources in the ongoing development of its Sector Strategic Plan. UNDP supported the training of 140 district technical officers on mainstreaming environmental management into the five year District Development Plan with practical tools to aid them in the process. This was to assist national support of local governments capacity building efforts in environmental management and participation, as well as prioritization of the environment within decentralized structures. UNDP produced and featured environmental documentaries highlighting the linkages between poverty and environment to raise the level of understanding and awareness of environmental issues among citizens. This included a radio broadcast highlighting PEI events and the media environment strategy. The role of environmental conservation in reducing poverty in Rwanda was also highlighted. Decentralization of Environmental Management In order to support national efforts to prioritize environment within decentralized structures, UNDP, under the Decentralization and Environment Management Project, supported the Ministry of Natural Resources (MINERENA) efforts in the effective implementation of environment policies, decentralization and coordination of environment services in the districts and strengthening district capacity for environmental management support to sustainable livelihoods as well as mainstreaming environment and natural resources in district development planning. UNDP supported the promotion of innovative environmental community practices at the community level as a strategy to ease population pressure on land and other natural resources. In 2008, primary and secondary environmental clubs in all schools in the Western provincial were trained and sensitized on environmental conservation efforts within their schools and home environments. This was to increase their understanding and awareness of environmental issues both at school and household and community levels. In support of the restoration and protection against potential degradation of national ecosystems, 1,146 families from seven districts were relocated 50 meters from the shores of Lake Kivu. The families were facilitated in forming income generation associations that would support improved management of natural resources. As an alternative income generation source, each of the relocated families in Nyamasheke and Rutsiro Districts received a cow per family to support them. Based on the successes evidenced in Nyamasheke and Rutsiro Districts, UNDP supported local farmers from other provinces in undertaking study tours to Western Province to learn best practices and replicate the same. A similar initiative demarcating 50 meters from Lake Muhazi shoreline in the five districts bordering Lake Kivu was carried out and the local communities sensitized on environmental conservation. This was to link environmental conservation activities to livelihoods of those living near protected areas through creation of the buffer zones. Protected Area Bio Diversity The key objective of the Protected Area Bio Diversity intervention is to protect the biodiversity of the Albertan Rift eco-region. Under this support, UNDP aimed at strengthening systematic, national and district capacities by integrating Protected Area Bio Diversity into national and district sector plans, strengthening the administrative capacities of the Office of National Parks and Tourism (ORTPN); enhancing local benefits from, and reduce conflicts within, parks by strengthening capacity for collaborative forest/park management, improving local benefits from tourism and reducing human and animal conflict; and strengthening park capacities for adaptive management through the development and the implementation of protected areas (PA) business plans, as well as developing robust monitoring and information system and staff training. In 2008, at the systemic level, UNDP in support of national efforts for environmental mainstreaming supported the harmonization of policies and their implementation across sectors at the national and local government levels. These policies ensured that forest management and agricultural practices in PA buffer zones were conservation compatible and that conservation was integrated in district development planning. A key benefit accruing to the local community in 2008 was the approved revenue policy that ploughed back tourism returns to local communities, giving them a claim in park conservation. UNDP similarly collaborated with the forest-edge communities to improve the conservation compatibility for their livelihoods, to reduce the negative impacts of honey, bamboo, and tree harvesting in the park, practices that were degrading forests. This was a means of linking conservation activities to community livelihoods for those living near protected areas. Through UNDP support, the Nyungwe National Park management developed and set up a data monitoring system to facilitate information management and processing for prompt decision making. There is an ongoing process for restoring degraded land in Nyungwe National Park and there are strategies to prohibit encroachment into parks supported by improved surveillance and enforcement. Montreal Protocol Ozone Depleting Substances Recovery and Recycling & Terminal Phase Out Management The purpose of UNDP support to Recovery and recycling is to recycle and recover chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) and other Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) in order to support the achievement of the Montreal Protocol goal. The interventions were conducted at the Recycle and Recovery Centre in Kigali. There was increased advocacy to support Rwanda in becoming an ODS-free country aired on the media including TV and radio. The TPMP (Terminal Phase-out Management Plan) project was established and technical assistance provided to build the capacity of the national government focal point. Through technical assistance, Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) received support in the establishment of three additional regional centers in Rubavu, Butare (Western Province) and Rwamagana (Eastern Province). All the project centers have been handed over to the private sector. Involving Youth in National Environmental Conservation The project s main objective was to involve the youth in combined environmental protection and income generation opportunities through the interventions in 17 districts (urban and rural areas) and specifically to protect Nyabarongo river system banks and catchment areas from land degradation and solid waste pollution while creating employment opportunities for the youth in both rural and urban districts. In 2008, an inception workshop was held in Rubavu for local government officials on watershed management and consequently, activities such as tree planting along river banks and terrace construction for agricultural activities commenced. Global Environment Facility: The Small Grants Programme The GEF/SGP programme is a UNDP global programme implemented through the United Nations Office for Project Services. The mission of GEF/SGP is to support local communities commitment to addressing global environmental problems in five GEF focal areas (biodiversity, climate change, land degradation, international waters protection and persistent organic pollutants (POPs)). GEF/SGP funds (projects initiated by local NGOs and community based organizations) aiming at environment conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, up to a maximum of US$ per project. The GEF/SGP supported the implementation of two additional microgrants programmes (MGPs): the MGP/NTEAP (a shared vision project of the Nile Basin Initiative) and the MGP/UNEP (a pilot micro-grants programme of UNEP in partnership with NEPAD). In 2008, the small grants programme supported an additional five new projects with grants equivalents to a total amount of 247,207 USD. With regard to climate change, UNDP supported the use of alternative household fuel through the promotion of use of fuel efficient stoves in 160 households of Nyarugunga District in Kigali City. Consequently, beneficiaries have reduced their reliance on charcoal by half, and are no longer victims of indoor pollution. The beneficiaries were also encouraged to use briquettes made from domestic waste instead of charcoal or fire wood. Bamboo trees plantation was encouraged in Maraba, Kamonyi, Gakenke and Bugesera Districts as part of an awareness campaign on the importance of bamboo for environment protection and its potential for poverty reduction (e.g. furniture and handcrafts making). In 2008, as part of international waters protection, and with cofinancing from Kigali City, ecological toilets were constructed in popular places to reduce the pollution of the Nyabugogo River. The clean and environmentally friendly toilets have improved the sanitation situation in Kigali City. In 2008, under biodiversity, Lake Muhazi was restocked with Tilapia flies to increase the population which has been decreasing over the years as well as promoting the consumption of Haplochromis, a less appreciated fish.

12 20 UNDP RWANDA ANNUAL REPORT Aid Coordination in Partnership with Donors Supporting Aid Coordination for Development Effectiveness in Rwanda UNDP provided support towards development effectiveness in Rwanda by strengthening Government capacities for aid management, facilitating dialogue between the Government of Rwanda and development partners as well as dialogue between the UN Resident Coordinator and Development Partners. Strengthening Government capacities In 2008, UNDP provided technical assistance and mentoring to Ministry of Economic Planning for effective aid management within the Government of Rwanda as part of capacity building. Similarly in 2008, under UNDP supported the development of a programmatic approach for the planned 2009 capacity development interventions for the Ministry. By mid 2008, the Ministry of Economic Planning and Finance under the Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfer with the Ministry assuming full responsibility of procurement and management of large contracts significantly reflects developed national implementation capacities. In 2008, the Development Assistance Database was developed through technical assistance. The users at the Ministry received training on the use of the data base. The Donor profile module is currently being developed and will be operational by early Two MINECOFIN staff members received on-job training in the use of the DAD Intelligent Data Manager module which allows the Government of Rwanda to rely less on external expertise as skills have been transferred and the tools customized and utilized. Through UNDP support, the sub regional forum for the launch of the Paris Declaration Monitoring Survey was held. Similarly, the Africa Regional Consultations for the Accra High Level Forum and a peer learning visit with the Governments of Niger and Djibouti were supported. This provided an important avenue for dialogue, networking and platform for knowledge exchange with other regional governments and most importantly positioned Rwanda as a regional leader in aid effectiveness. Through UNDP analytical and advisory support, the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, in liaison with line Ministries and key departments established Sector Wide Approaches (SWaps) such as the Agriculture SWap. Analytic and advisory services have also been provided in support of the development of Sector Wide Approaches (SWAps) in a number of key sectors. This has involved working closely with MINECOFIN departments and line ministries through training on SWap principles was provided to Government officials through the Network of Planners, and targeted workshops for the Agriculture sector institutions. This led to the settlement of MoUs and institutional arrangements for sector-wide working in Agriculture by the end of Support to the Government of Rwanda Development Partner dialogue In 2008, UNDP supported dialogue between development partners and the Government of Rwanda on effectiveness of development cooperation by supporting the establishment of a joint Government of Rwanda UNRCO technical secretariat for the Development Partners Coordination Group and associated forums. The 8th Annual Government of Rwanda and Development Partner Meeting (DPM) was held as part of this dialogue under the theme Beyond Aid: Innovation Mechanisms for Financing the EDPRS. The forum discussions were centered on good governance, macroeconomic performance, progress and challenges in the implementation of the EDPRS, emerging sources of development finance, review progress against the Monterrey Consensus and Paris Declaration and, at the invitation of the Government, and mutual accountability. This contributed to strengthened partnerships between the Government of Rwanda and development partners with a key endorsement of having a biennial meeting. Support to the UN Resident Coordinator and Development Partners In 2008, UNDP provided advisory services to the UN Resident Coordinators part of a process of encouraging dialogue between development partners, the United Nations under the One Programme and the Government of Rwanda. Consequently, support to civil society was endorsed by the Steering Committee resulting on UNDP support in establishing civil society networks in Rwanda. In collaboration with the Civil Society Platform, a forum for dialogue was held with the participation of international and national Civil Society Organizations. UNDP through its CSO networks invited a representative of the African Network on Debt and Development, to discuss aid effectiveness from a regional perspective. This resulted in the drafting of a joint Civil Society Statement on aid and development effectiveness that was presented to the Government of Rwanda and development partners at the annual DPM. In 2008, the Survey on Monitoring the Paris Declaration was conducted for Rwanda which resulted in significant dialogue between the Government and Development Partners, and achieved a coverage rate of over 95% of ODA. Rwanda s leadership on aid effectiveness is respected on the African continent due to the Government of Rwanda s commitment and strong leadership on development cooperation and ensuring that aid in the short term contributed to development effectiveness.

13 ANNUAL REPORT Combating HIV and AIDS The project s key objective was to strengthen CNLS coordination and implementation of the National National multisectoral HIV/ AIDS Plan, CNLS and its decentralized structures, national sectoral committees, NGOs, community based associations and faith based organizations. Its specific objectives, aligned with those of the NMP designed by The Government of Rwanda, are as follows: (a) strengthening CNLS capacities at central and decentralized levels ; (b) strengthening the capacities of sectoral committees of the Ministry of Education, Youth National Council and Women National Council ; (c) strengthening capacities of NGOs, local associations and faith based organizations, and (4) supporting local initiatives for the prevention and care and support of people infected and affected by HIV and AIDS. The project was supported by the African Development Bank and managed by UNDP. In 2008, support was provided for the conduct of two HIV/AIDS impact studies: the impact of HIV/AIDS on the national GDP and the impact of HIV/AIDS funding on the health system. This provided vital data for planning for the HIV response at the national levels. In 2008 national and decentralised coordination structures were strengthened in their response to HIV/AIDS. District AIDS committees of Nyarugenge, Kicukiro, Gasabo, Nyamagabe, Musanze, Gakenke, Rusizi, Nyabihu, Bugesera, and Nyagatare Districts received power generators. Maternal health agents who were previously birth attendants were trained in fourteen districts UNDP facilitated coordination meetings, supervision visits and operational cost for the umbrella NGO forum against HIV and AIDS and RCLS, the Network of faith based organizations. Income generating activities for people living with HIV received support to provide mechanisms for improving their livelihoods. Capacity building for a coordinated decentralized national HIV response The project aimed at strengthening the technical capacity of the CDLS and CNLS to coordinate the HIV response. Activities were implemented under two components: UNDP and the African Development Bank supported thirty United Nations Volunteers in providing technical assistant to the District Aids Committees. This resulted in strengthened capacities of the CDLS in coordination, planning, monitoring and evaluation of the HIV/AIDS response at the decentralised level. Subsequently, a coordination guide was developed and is currently pending validation. Due to improved coordination and synergy, coordination mechanisms for the HIV/AIDS response has been established for the government and civil society organizations. At central level, UNDP through technical assistance was provided to the District Aids committee to coordinate the income generating projects for people living with HIV/AIDS, to provide oversight in the process of transformation of local associations into cooperatives and to coordinate training. A post training assessment was conducted and HIV training modules standardized. A roster of qualified trainers was been compiled and disseminated to stakeholders for future reference. UNDP supported the development of sector and district capacities to plan, budget, and monitor and evaluate EDPRS HIV interventions in 2008.The EDPRS sectors received support in mainstreaming HIV /AIDS in their strategic plans and their annual work plans with very clear HIV indicators and targets and corresponding budgets. The HIV indicators have been integrated in districts MTEF, annual action plans and budgets.

14 ANNUAL REPORT Engendering District Development Plans In Rwanda the AA4 Agreement is implemented in 2008 through Reinforcing Capacities of Local Governments to integrate Gender in Decentralized Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS) Planning in line with the National EDPRS Project. The project objective is to improve the baseline information on gender in five representative districts, improve integration of gender-based analysis into the EDPRS district policies and plans, improved implementation and monitoring of gender sensitive EDPRS district plans and increased understanding of gender issues amongst the population in districts. Through the Agreement, an Integrated Package of Services was provided to support MDG-based National Development Strategies. The Government of Rwanda and UNDP are coordinating at the national level while SNV builds capacities at the decentralised levels in the districts The partnership between UNDP and SNV reflects the Government s vision for decentralization and provided an avenues for supporting the government one of the key pillars of Vision 2020 and the EDPRS - achieving gender equality. The project was implemented in Ngororero, Nyamagabe, Musanze, Nyarugenge, and Bugesera districts. In 2008, gender sensitive indicators were developed. The baseline survey of for engendering the District Development Plans in the districts was completed and will inform the planning and budgeting process. The Rwanda Gender and Governance group was established to disseminate the findings of the survey. The key partners were the Ministry of Local Administration, Good Governance, Community Development and Social Affairs (MINALOC), Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN), Ministry for Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), United Nations Fund for Women (UNIFEM), United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the National Council of Women.

15 26 UNDP RWANDA ANNUAL REPORT The United Nations Volunteers Programme in Rwanda About 58 national and international UNVs were serving in Rwanda during They were assigned in UN agencies and government institutions: UNHCR : 9 international and national volunteers serve in the field of protection, administration, logistics and reporting. WFP: 4 international volunteers serve as Programme Officer HIV/ AIDS, Access Data base and Logistics Experts. CNLS (Conseil National de Lutte contre le Sida): 28 national volunteers are based in all provinces ; they are working as Provincial Trainers. UNFPA: 9 national volunteers serve in field as District programme Coordinators and Monitoring and Evaluation Officers and 2 international volunteers are working as ICT Specialist and Special assistant to the UNFPA Resident Representative. UNDP: 3 international volunteers are working as Programme Officer, Programme Analyst for Justice and Energy and GEF Associate at UNDP. This project is a response to the UN Agencies to Deliver as One to meet development needs and rights of Rwandan adolescents and youth from 2009 to Contribution to UNDP Practice Areas Strengthening national capacity to respond to HIV/AIDS and mitigate its socioeconomic impact (CNLS) A total of 28 national UNVs are working for this programme in the areas of planning, monitoring and evaluation to support the National AIDS Commission (CNLS), in terms of capacity building, to ensure effective policy development and dissemination. The volunteers are based in all districts. Access to Justice for all, the Foundation of Good Governance and Poverty 1 International UNV is working under this Programme as a Programme Analyst for Justice, supporting activities in capacity building, strategic and policy advice, and sensitization of the population for access to justice for all, especially for the poor and vulnerable ones. The present report provides an overview of the performance of the United Nations Volunteers Programme in Rwanda and also information and results where the Programme is making distinctive contributions. Since 1974, the UNV Programme has been active in Rwanda, contributing to a variety of development projects, from teaching in rural communities to supporting small, medium and micro enterprises. The Programme played a leading role in response to the aftermath of the genocide with the involvement of more than 150 UN Volunteers in resettlement and reintegration activities, protecting the well being of two million returning refugees. Main Achievements in 2008 During 2008, the UNV Programme has played a leading role in the promotion and development of volunteerism to support the government of Rwanda to move to a more integrated and sustainable approach and to introduce and advocate for volunteerism for development as a concept to the population, especially to the young people. In order to properly respond to the Government plan of scaling up the youth friendly centers to the 30 districts of Rwanda, UNFPA and UNV Programme in Rwanda have taken the initiative to: assess and document the best practices from the past approaches of youth friendly centers; develop proposals to support the youth friendly centers scale up process; seek for potential partnership with other development partners for the funding of the project. The Youth Joint Programme will be officially launched during This Programme will support the Ministry of Youth to promote the economic, social, cultural, intellectual and moral welfare of youth and the integration of favourable conditions for youth in all sectors of society to encourage them to become stakeholders for sustainable development. In order to ensure the integration of volunteerism in the development strategies of the country, the project will support the formulation and implementation of a national policy and strategy on volunteerism. UNV s contribution to the project will focus on Participation and civic education, gender, human rights, community life and volunteerism. During 2008, the UNV Programme also provides input to strengthening capacity of civil society organizations in HIV response in Rwanda. The Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UN AIDS) country office in Rwanda, in the framework of its work to reinforce civil society s response against HIV-AIDS, brought to Rwanda four Spanish volunteers to support the national Umbrellas NGO Forum on HIV-AIDS, Faith based Organizations Network against HIVAIDS (RCLS), and Network of People living with HIV- AIDS (RRP+). International Volunteer Day (IVD) celebrated every December 5 th is an important platform for UNV Programme to advocate for volunteerism. The celebration of IVD 2008 brought together local and international structures working to promote volunteerism including JICA, KOICA, LOV RWANDA. The theme for 2008 was Improving Life Through Volunteering. UN dispensary: 1 international volunteer is managing the UN dispensary. FAO: 1 International volunteer working as Animal product specialist. UNHABITAT: 1 international volunteer is working respectively as chef d antenne and Associate Programme Analyst. Promotion of the ONE UN Since Rwanda was selected to be a pilot country for the One UN, the UNV Programme through the UNV Programme Officer actively participates in the implementation of this reform. The UNV Unit was an active member of the Interagency Task Force for the elaboration of the Country Operational Document for Rwanda. The UNV Unit is also a member of the UN Communication and the HIV/AIDS working Groups. The UNV Programme is involved with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the United Nations Children s Fund (UNICEF), the World Food Program (WFP), UN Habitat, The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), The United Nations Population Funds (UNFPA). Towards the finalization of the Youth Joint Programme in November 2008, other UN Agencies expressed their strong interest to be part of the project. Thus it was taken up by the One UN programme in Rwanda and reformulated under the lead of UNFPA as a joint project of all UN Agencies present in Rwanda. Energy and Environment 1 International UNV is working in the Environment Unit as an Energy and GEF Associate to promote energy for sustainable development with the object of maximizing energy utilization to promote economic development consistent with protection of the environment and alleviation of rural poverty. Plans for 2009 For 2009, the UNV Unit will continue to develop and reinforce its collaboration with UN agencies, local partners and other volunteer structures based in Rwanda. In this view, many activities that are in line with the UNV Programme core values will be developed and implemented, including activities for advocacy, integration of volunteerism into development and the mobilization of volunteers. Also, the UNV Programme will be one of the main actors involved in the organization of the National Conference on Volunteering scheduled for August 2009 aiming to raise awareness among government officials on the importance of volunteerism for the achievement of MDGs and the need to implement a Legal Framework to address issues related to volunteerism in Rwanda.

16 ANNUAL REPORT Conclusion The performance of the UNDP Country Office in 2008 was encouraging - against a backdrop of the global financial crisis, in the drive for results, excellence and contribution to human development. The year 2008 evidenced deepened collaboration and cooperation between UNDP and the Government of Rwanda. UNDP programmes were aligned in response to the Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS), Vision 2020 Umurenge priorities as articulated in the United Nations Development Assistance Framework and the Common Operational Document. UNDP s interventions in Democratic Governance and Environment as defined in the Annual Work Plans are a reflection of the alignment. UNDP has strengthened its partnerships with development partners and donors through continuous engagement and dialogue in support of programmes in Democratic Governance and Environment - areas in which UNDP has a comparative advantage, and where UNDP was able to provide advisory services. UNDP anticipates stronger partnerships and engagement with the Government of Rwanda, civil society, the private sector and donors in the coming year in support of the realisation of Rwanda s development efforts. As part of the UNDP global family, UNDP Rwanda recognises that there is room for improvement in our processes, programming and provision of high quality development assistance to the Government and people of Rwanda. In the coming year, UNDP intends to continue to improve its service delivery through office realignment and more joint programming to better reinforce the delivering as one while building on synergies within the UN system itself. We will endeavour at all times to provide qualitative development support to accompany Rwanda s efforts.