As part of the project "Green Future: Sustainable Climate Protection Project in Burundi," the cluster "Peace Work", Roots & Shoots Burundi, the German Culture Center at the University of Burundi, and AgrarKontakte International (AKI) e.V. organized a seminar in Nyanza-Lac on June 22, 2024. The seminar was attended by representatives of the mayors’ office of Nyanza-Lac and over 200 volunteers. The aim of the seminar was to promote peace within and among communities, raise awareness about climate change, and intensify efforts against climate change.

The seminar started with a visit to the AKI nurseries together with the “Peace and Environment Club” in Nyanza-Lac and the volunteers. Afterwards, the participants walked approximately 4 km through the town of Nyanza-Lac to reach the seminar venue. The motto was "Protect me and I will protect you," conveying the message to protect the environment so that it can protect us in return.

The responsible persons highlighted the following points:

• David Ninteretse, Project Coordinator of Roots & Shoots Burundi and advisor for the "Green Future" project in Burundi, introduced Roots & Shoots Burundi. He explained the importance of bamboo trees, biodegradable bags, and nursery management for climate protection.
• Dr. Alois Misago, Project Manager of the cluster "Peace Work" and Director of the German Cultural Center at the University of Burundi, highlighted the dramatic impacts of climate change in Burundi and their consequences.
• Teklezghi Teklebrhan, Project Manager at AKI, presented the initiative "Green Future: Sustainable Climate Protection Project in Burundi." He emphasized the urgency to intensify measures such as reforestation and other solutions, and to mobilize all efforts to protect the environment and climate.
• Pierre Maniragarura, the local coordinator of AKI, expressed gratitude for the well-organized seminar and called for enhanced collaboration.

The outcomes of the seminar included:

• Over 200 participants were informed on the causes and impacts of climate change to enhance awareness of environmentally friendly practices within the community.
• The seminar promoted exchange and collaboration among local authorities, international organizations, and volunteers to establish a sustainable foundation for future climate protection measures and peaceful cooperation.
• Participants committed to assisting with tree planting efforts and mobilizing others to support local capacities in combating climate change.

The project „Green future: sustainable climate protection project in Burundi“ is funded by the Ministry of Food, Rural Areas and Consumer Protection - Baden-Württemberg (MLR) since January 2024.