Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment Questioned Over Rwf1.2 Billion Forest Loss

The Chamber of Deputies has demanded an explanation from the Ministry of Environment regarding a Rwf1.2 billion loss caused by mismanagement of contracts between the Government of Rwanda and Sawmill East Africa Ltd (SEAL), the issue was raised during a plenary session on March 4, 2026. The concern stems from forest management agreements for the Shariyo and Ntobo I, II, III forests, which were reportedly not respected, leading to significant financial losses. A joint audit by the Ministry of Environment, Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA), and SEAL, launched on February 17, 2025, revealed total losses of Rwf 1,238,244,838, including over Rwf 1.1 billion in unpaid timber harvests and Rwf 9.08 million in unpaid land leases. The Ministry confirmed that SEAL has agreed to repay the losses, though payment has not yet been made. The Forest Service informed MPs that termination of the contract is nearly complete, with hopes of full repayment within 30 days. The chairperson of the Commission on Land, Agriculture, Livestock and Environment, Muzana Alice, stated that measures are being taken to prevent future losses, including requiring contractors to pay 100% of tree costs before harvesting and strengthening contract monitoring. Parliament also requested that the Ministry establish clear regulations for collaboration between RFA, districts, and Kigali City, ensuring continuous and timely reporting on forest management nationwide. This directive must be implemented within two months. The case highlights the importance of accountability in state-forest contracts and the need for robust oversight to protect public resources.