Protecting nature through digital innovations in Rwanda

In the heart of Africa, Rwanda is writing a new chapter in how countries can protect nature, not with more paperwork, but with smarter technology.

As the world faces a growing biodiversity finance gap — estimated at over $700 billion annually — Rwanda has developed a digital solution that is changing the way environmental fines are issued, tracked, and reinvested. Innovation lies not only in the technology itself, but also in the powerful link it creates between environmental accountability and ecological restoration.

From paper to technology

Until recently, Rwanda’s paper-based system for managing environmental fines was inefficient and difficult to monitor. This included fines issued by environmental inspectors for prohibited activities such as pollution, illegal logging, mining, and other violations of Rwanda's environmental laws. The manual process created a significant administrative burden, as inspectors had to issue multiple paper notifications for each case with limited tools to track compliance.

Photo: REMA environmental inspectors are inspecting a wetland area where illegal waste dumping has occurred

Even when fines were paid, they were often deposited in banks without the relevant information being provided, making it almost impossible to attribute the payments to specific offences. This lack of traceability made accountability difficult and, more importantly, prevented the authorities from linking environmental fines to the conservation measures they were supposed to support.

Such a disconnect between violations, payments, and restoration posed a major challenge to Rwanda’s efforts to protect its natural heritage, a challenge that required an innovative solution.

Recognizing this, the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), with support from the United Nations Development Programme’s Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), launched IremboPay  - a digital platform that simplifies and streamlines the collection of environmental fines and fees.

Turning fines into forests

Launched nationwide in October 2024 after a pilot in March, IremboPay allows inspectors to issue fines instantly, with offenders able to make payments via mobile phones. The funds are transferred directly to the Rwanda Green Fund (FONERWA), ensuring a seamless connection between enforcement and environmental impact.

Photo: REMA environmental inspectors have received training on how to use the Irembopay system.

Since its launch, IremboPay has processed over $122,000 in fines, all of which is being reinvested into conservation efforts such as reforestation, wetland restoration, and environmental education. For the first time, Rwanda can ensure that those who harm the environment are directly contributing to its repair.

Photo: An environmental inspector issues an on-site fine to a resident, who instantly receives a digital notification on her phone. At the same time, REMA officials at headquarters can track the violation and payment status in real time via the IremboPay dashboard, creating a seamless system that ensures accountability and transparency across the enforcement process.

The platform is already changing behavior. “How will my money fix the damage I caused?” one fined offender asked. Thanks to IremboPay, that answer is now clear. His payment helps fund real environmental action - reforestation, wetland restoration, and environmental education - creating a direct and tangible link between accountability and ecosystem recovery.

A model aligned with global goals

Rwanda’s approach is not only effective - it is visionary. It aligns with Target 19 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which calls for innovative financial mechanisms and enhanced domestic resource mobilization. By integrating biodiversity finance into national systems and reducing dependence on foreign aid, Rwanda is gaining sovereignty over its environmental future. The IremboPay initiative marks a crucial step toward overcoming the resource constraints of a low-income country while effectively safeguarding Rwanda’s vital natural heritage.

Challenges and the road ahead

While the system has improved transparency and efficiency, it currently remains accessible only to inspectors. Expanding public awareness and engagement will be vital to building trust and strengthening compliance. In addition, clear monitoring and evaluation mechanisms will be needed to ensure that funds are used effectively and equitably.

Rwanda’s experience offers a powerful lesson: digital innovation can transform environmental governance. By linking enforcement with restoration, and accountability with transparency, Rwanda is not just collecting fines - it is cultivating a culture of ecological responsibility.