The 38th Meeting of Parties to the Montreal Protocol convened in Rwanda, marking the first time the event is hosted on the African continent. The Montreal Protocol, established in 1987, is regarded as one of the most effective international treaties for environmental protection. Delegates from over 190 countries gathered in Kigali to assess progress and discuss future actions to phase out ozone-depleting substances.
The meeting focused on the implementation of the Kigali Amendment, which aims to reduce hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) — potent greenhouse gases. Rwanda, as a signatory, has been actively promoting the amendment, emphasizing the need for global cooperation. The country has also committed to reducing its own emissions through national policies.
The Montreal Protocol has been credited with successfully phasing out substances that damage the ozone layer, leading to the recovery of the ozone layer. This meeting represents a continuation of that success, with a renewed focus on addressing climate change through the reduction of HFCs. Rwanda’s hosting of the event highlights its growing role in international environmental governance.
