Jolie Mukiza’s Fight for Rwanda’s Green Future

 

In the heart of Rwanda, where mist-covered mountains kiss the skies and rolling hills stretch endlessly, a quiet revolution is taking place. This revolution is not led by politicians or corporations, but by women like Jolie Mukiza, visionaries who see conservation as more than just preserving nature, but as an act of empowerment, justice, and survival.

Jolie Mukiza, a dedicated environmentalist, a conservation guide and ecofeminist, has become a beacon of hope for communities in Rwanda. Her work in conservation extends beyond the protection of forests, wildlife, and water bodies; it intertwines with the rights and voices of women who have long been stewards of the land yet sidelined in decision-making processes. Through grassroots activism, education, and sustainable practices, she is reshaping the narrative, one tree, one river, and one empowered woman at a time.

Jolie, has dedicated the past thirteen years of her life to preserving the environment. She says "We need more resources to support environmental protection, and more women involved in conservation careers." She is not only protecting gorillas but also inspiring women across Rwanda to take on leadership roles in environmental stewardship. Her job and commitment to nature is also inspiring her kids and family. It provides a living and a way to protect their beloved gorillas. As a guide to visitors, she conducts educational tours to the public to know, learn, and get involved in the protection of these endangered animals. 

For Jolie, conservation is inseparable from gender justice. In many rural Rwandan communities, women bear the brunt of environmental degradation, from walking longer distances for firewood and water to suffering the economic losses caused by soil erosion and deforestation. Recognizing this, Jolie has spearheaded initiatives that empower women through sustainable agriculture, reforestation projects, and alternative livelihoods that reduce reliance on forest exploitation.

Her organization, Umugore na Kamere (Women and Nature), champions programs that train women in agroforestry, water conservation, and eco-tourism. One of its flagship projects is the “Green Mothers” initiative, where women are given the resources and skills to plant indigenous trees that combat soil erosion while also generating income through fruit-bearing species. These women are not just planting trees, they are cultivating a future where economic resilience and ecological balance go hand in hand.

Jolie’s efforts are particularly evident in the Gishwati-Mukura landscape, a region that has suffered years of deforestation but is now seeing a resurgence due to conservation programs led by local women. Here, Jolie’s team collaborates with farmers to adopt regenerative farming techniques, reducing chemical use and restoring soil health. Her advocacy extends to policy discussions, ensuring that women’s perspectives are integrated into national conservation strategies.

One of her greatest victories was securing government support for women-led cooperatives to manage community forests. These cooperatives serve as both guardians of biodiversity and economic lifelines, as women produce eco-friendly products like bamboo crafts and natural dyes while ensuring the forest remains protected.

Jolie’s impact is also felt in education. She believes that conservation starts with knowledge, which is why she has pioneered environmental education programs in schools, ensuring that young girls grow up with an understanding of climate resilience and ecological responsibility. Through storytelling, art, and traditional wisdom, she fosters a sense of ownership and love for nature in the next generation.

Despite the challenges, climate change, resistance to change, and limited funding, Jolie Mukiza remains undeterred. Her vision is clear: a Rwanda where conservation is community-driven, where women are recognized as custodians of the land, and where nature and humanity thrive together.

Her journey reminds us that when women rise, nature flourishes. And in the rolling hills of Rwanda, a greener, more just future is taking root, thanks to the unwavering spirit of women like Jolie Mukiza.