Program

Health Program

FESD contributes to improving community health through integrated environmental and livelihood interventions that address the root causes of poor health. The organization promotes better nutrition by supporting sustainable agriculture, agroforestry, and the distribution of fruit tree seedlings, helping families—especially women and children—access healthier diets. FESD also advocates for improved access to clean water and sanitation, while its environmental initiatives such as tree planting, pollution reduction, and the promotion of energy-efficient household technologies help create healthier living conditions and reduce disease risks.

The health program is aligned with national priorities and global frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Rwanda’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and the National Strategy for Transformation (NST). FESD’s work supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through improved nutrition, health insurance support, and environmental health practices. It also contributes to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 1 (No Poverty) by improving food security and reducing financial and environmental health risks. Through climate-smart agriculture and the promotion of clean energy solutions such as improved cookstoves, FESD also supports national efforts to build climate-resilient and healthier communities.

Key activities under the health program include community health education on hygiene, sanitation, and nutrition ; distribution of fruit tree seedlings to improve diets and food security ; promotion of energy-efficient stoves to reduce indoor air pollution ; tree planting to improve air quality ; and advocacy for clean water access to prevent water-borne diseases. These efforts are strengthened through partnerships with local authorities, community institutions, and development partners, ensuring that FESD’s health initiatives contribute to broader national and international efforts to improve public health and resilience across Rwanda.