Presented by: NDAGIJIMANA Isidore WED, Huye June 3, 2015

Local Non-Governmental Organization Focus on research and education for biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability in Rwanda Founded by biologists and conservationists, with background study in Biodiversity Conservation at University of Rwanda, Biology department. All but one are from the MSc intake ; one is in the same program but completed studies as exchange student in University of Gothenburg (Sweden)

Comprises 8 members now, all of whom are founders. There is now an executive committee comprising: Majyambere Methode (President & Legal representative) Umuziranenge Gloriose (Vice-president & Deputy legal representative) Zibera Etienne (Secretary) Ndagijimana Isidore (Treasurer)

The other 4 members are: Uwizelimana Jean de Dieu Kubwimana Jean Paul Mirindi Dusenge Eric Banamwana Celestin BEST’s principal area of activity is Rwanda, but it can eventually extend its impact in the region or farther abroad BEST has its office in Huye district, Ngoma sector

Initial discussion and raising of the idea developed between August and December In January decision was taken and agreements made during meetings about the NGO creation, name to adopt, and common understanding of mission and activities In February 2014, aware of the need for registration and legal requirements, we applied for collaboration with Huye district

In the same month (February 2014), a Collaboration letter was issued by Huye district, signed by the mayor, granting collaboration In March 2014, we requested registration under Rwanda Governance Board March-November 2014: Study of the application, Clarifications, Adjustments, Follow-up, and Amendments as required by RGB. December 2014: Issuance of the Temporary certificate of registration by RGB; this is valid from 2 nd Dec 2014 to 1 st Dec 2015.

Our activities Initially having developed capacity to act as volunteer conservationists, we can also be proactive in designing our own projects which can be carried out within our financial limitations or be granted support from funders; we can also respond to help from where needed and consultancies as well in our areas of expertise. Our activities can be involve several fields.

1) Design and apply skills in environmental projects and interventions: - Address conservation issues on threatened ecosystems and biodiversity - Restoration of ecosystems and prevention of habitat alteration - Environmental Impact Assessment for development projects - Promoting sustainable use and management of natural resources - Climate change adaptation methods in agriculture and forestry - Contribution in environmental pollution control and waste management - Reducing and mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, etc.

2) Capacity building and conservation education: - Build capacity of the organization by providing trainings and practical skills - Raise awareness of environmental issues and solutions to different project stakeholders - Educate people around threatened ecosystems to ensure sustainable use of natural resources - Encourage efforts of scholar and academic learners through workshops and discussions - Participate in meetings, workshops, conferences, and festivities organized with partners

Mission Manage research projects and promote awareness for biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability in Rwanda Vision Contributing to conservation of Rwandan biodiversity and environmental sustainability basing on research development

Our motto Safe biodiversity and environment, our safe future Our website For more information about our NGO, we welcome you on our website Use our temporary web blog This is to be soon updated to: