Background of Stewards of Eden
The founders of Stewards of Eden, primarily science teachers, bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the organization. They have participated in transformative programs such as the Climate Reality Leadership Training led by former U.S. Vice President Al Gore and Climate Fresk workshops based on the IPCC report. These experiences opened their eyes to the urgency of climate action and inspired a focus on adaptive, resilient solutions to address the impacts of climate change.
The devastating floods and landslides of 2018–2020, which wreaked havoc in neighboring districts, left an indelible mark on their perspective. These events underscored the critical need to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and became the driving force behind the creation of Stewards of Eden. The organization is dedicated to fostering sustainable solutions that support both the well-being of communities and the protection of our planet.
The name Eden draws inspiration from the biblical Garden of Eden, the pristine paradise created by God and entrusted to the first human beings, Adam and Eve, as its caretakers. In an environmental context, Eden represents the ideal blueprint of what our planet should embody—a harmonious, thriving ecosystem where biodiversity flourishes and life-supporting systems sustain all living beings.
This vision serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility we share as stewards of today's environment. It calls on us to protect and preserve the natural world, conserving its rich biodiversity and ensuring that Earth's life-supporting systems remain resilient for future generations. Stewards of Eden embraces this mission by championing sustainable practices and fostering a deep connection between people and the environment they depend on.
ORIGIN OF THE NAME
Main objectives of Stewards of Eden
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Disseminate early warning knowledge and raise awareness about global and local environmental challenges, while actively engaging in activities that conserve and protect biodiversity. All actions are carried out in compliance with Rwandan environmental laws and international agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, to which Rwanda is a signatory.
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Collaborate with diverse stakeholders to combat global climate change and work towards reversing the ecological crisis through unified and strategic efforts.
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Identify, nurture, and integrate talents that contribute to environmental conservation, empowering individuals to play a proactive role in safeguarding nature.
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Conduct research and advocate for the development and promotion of a bio-curriculum for schools, fostering an environmentally conscious generation equipped with the knowledge and skills to address climate challenges.
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Recognize and incorporate indigenous knowledge and cultural practices into environmental conservation strategies, ensuring that time-tested wisdom complements modern solutions in sustaining ecosystems.
Our goals are:
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Enhance biodiversity conservation through education, sustainable management, and specialized training programs, empowering communities to become active stewards of their environment.
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Elevate the quality of life for local communities by promoting the sustainable management and conservation of natural resources, ensuring a balance between human needs and ecological health.
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Safeguard the natural environment by encouraging its wise use, ensuring its preservation for the benefit, enjoyment, and inspiration of future generations.
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Strengthen resilience to climate change by reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing the adaptive capacities of local communities through targeted initiatives and capacity-building efforts.
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Foster a culture of environmental responsibility by integrating innovative practices, community participation, and cross-sector collaboration to achieve sustainable development goals.