Perceptions of Local People on the Use of Nyabarongo River Wetland and Its Conservation in Rwanda |
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Authors: | Venuste Nsengimana Simeon Weihler Beth A Kaplin |
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Institution: | 1. Department of Mathematics and Science–Education, College of Education, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda;2. Social Sciences Department, College of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda;3. Biology Department, College of Science and Technology, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda |
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Abstract: | This research presents a case study on perceptions of local people on the use of Nyabrongo river wetland and its conservation in Rwanda. It critically examines the potential implications of a shift in wetland use and management practices for local people and presents empirical data from a household survey, group discussions, and observations from transect walks. Results showed that the change in the use and management regime of Nyabarongo river wetland poses substantial loss for local people in terms of provision of resources, income, and access to the wetland, so that the majority of the participants are not happy with the current use of the wetland. Research concluded that there should be participation of all stakeholders, including local people, during policy development in order to shift from command-and-control toward local stakeholder integration in decision making. |
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Keywords: | Biodiversity income natural resources policy stakeholder top-down approach |
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