Coastal wetlands management in Rwanda, case study Coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake.

College of Sciences and Technology
School of Architecture and Built environment
Department of Geography
Option: Environmental Management
A dissertation submitted to the Faculty of fulfillment of
requirements for award of Bachelor‟s Degree in Geography:
Environment planning option.
Presented by: Theogene Bonfils TURATINGABO
Florent NIYOMUHUZA
Faustin NJEKUMURATA
Supervisor: Ir. Herve Villard HABONIMANA
Coastal wetlands management in Rwanda, case study Coastal
wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake.

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CERTIFICATION
The Undersigned certifies that has read and recommends for acceptance by the University of
Rwanda a dissertation titled: “The coastal wetlands management in Rwanda: case study coastal
wetlands bordering Muhazi lake in Rutunga sector. In partial fulfilment of the requirements for
the degree of Bachelor with honour in Geography: Environmental management and planning.
Signature………………………
Ir. Herve Villard HABONIMANA (Supervisor)
Signature………………………………………
Date…………………………………………….
Dr BIZIMANA Jean Pierre (Head of department of Geography)
Date…. /……/……

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Dedication
We dedicate this work to:
- Our beloved Families,
- Our Friends.
- Our classmates

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Acknowledgement
First we would like to pay special honour to our supervisor Ir. Herve Villard HABONIMANA
who ensured to tirelessly guide and advise us throughout our course work and research work. So
our deepest gratitude is addressed to him.
We are equally grateful to the Lecturers of the Department of Geography for their valuable
support during the studies of bachelor‟s degree.
I wish to convey my special thanks to our colleague classmates and roommates at the University
of Rwanda with whom we shared valuable academic discussions. They were a constant source of
encouragement and friendliness throughout this work.
At last but not least, we would like to thank to our Family for their support during our entire
study. Individual advices and the encouragement that helped us to reach this level.
May the Almighty God Bless you all, forever
Theogene Bonfils TURATINGABO ……………………………
Florent NIYOMUHUZA ………………………………………...
Faustin NJEKUMURATA ……………………………………….
……. June 2018

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Table of Contents
CERTIFICATION .......................................................................................................................... 2
Dedication....................................................................................................................................... 3
Acknowledgement .......................................................................................................................... 4
Abstract........................................................................................................................................... 7
List of acronyms and abbreviations ................................................................................................ 8
List of figures and tables................................................................................................................. 9
1. Introduction............................................................................................................................... 10
1.1. Research problem........................................................................................................... 11
1.2. Research objectives............................................................................................................ 11
1.2.1. General objectives....................................................................................................... 11
1.2.2. Specific objectives ....................................................................................................... 11
1.3. Scope of research ........................................................................................................... 12
1.4. Research interest and motivation.................................................................................. 12
1.5. Significance of the study ................................................................................................ 12
1.6. Limitations of the study ................................................................................................. 12
1.7. Research organization.................................................................................................... 13
2. Literature review ................................................................................................................... 14
2.1. Defining “wetland”............................................................................................................. 14
2.2. Importance of wetlands..................................................................................................... 15
2.3 Wetland degradation and loss ............................................................................................ 16
2.4. Wetland management and conservation .......................................................................... 17
2.5. Wetlands and their exploitation in Rwanda ...................................................................... 17
2.6. The cause of change of coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake. ................................... 18
2.6.1. Natural factors............................................................................................................. 18
2.6.2. Anthropogenic factors................................................................................................. 18
2.7. Impacts of anthropogenic activities on coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake. .......... 19
2.8. The strategies that are taken to manage the coastal wetlands and missing in coastal
wetlands management.............................................................................................................. 22
2.8.1. Strategies for coastal wetlands management............................................................. 22

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2.8.2. Organic Law on the environment................................................................................ 22
2.8.3. The problems or missing in coastal wetlands management....................................... 24
2.9. The management of coastal wetlands............................................................................... 25
2.9.1. Coastal wetlands management in Rwanda ................................................................. 25
2.9.2. Laws and Policies governing Muhazi coastal Wetland in Rwanda.............................. 26
2.9.3. The anthropogenic activities that affects coastal wetlands management ................. 26
2.10. The role of coastal wetlands conservation or protection................................................ 28
3. Research methodology.......................................................................................................... 30
3.1. Study area description ....................................................................................................... 30
3.2. Materials and methods ...................................................................................................... 30
3.2.1. Materials...................................................................................................................... 32
3.2.2. Research methods....................................................................................................... 32
4. Results and findings............................................................................................................... 35
4.1. Area change in the coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake .......................................... 36
4.1.1. Land covers map production....................................................................................... 36
4.1.2. Change detection map production and accuracy assessment.................................... 37
4.2. The causes of Muhazi coastal wetlands change. ............................................................... 42
4.3. Coastal wetlands management in Rwanda and near Muhazi lake in particular ........... 43
4.4. The anthropogenic activities that are carried out in Muhazi coastal wetlands around
Rutunga sector. ......................................................................................................................... 43
4.5. Impacts of anthropogenic activities on Muhazi coastal wetland .................................. 49
4.7. Strategies taken for Muhazi coastal wetlands and problems that face coastal wetlands
conservation.............................................................................................................................. 51
4.7.1. Strategies for Muhazi coastal wetlands conservation.................................................. 52
4.7.3. Limitation to the strategies of Muhazi coastal wetlands conservation ...................... 53
5. Conclusion and recommendations ........................................................................................... 55
5.1. Conclusion ......................................................................................................................... 55
5.2. Recommendations ............................................................................................................. 55
6. References list........................................................................................................................ 57
7. Appendices................................................................................................................................ 59

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Abstract
This research was carried out on the coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake in Rutunga sector.
This research is interested in analysing the management of the coastal wetlands around Lake
Muhazi and proposes suitable options for enhanced wetland management. Both secondary and
primary data were used, Primary data were obtained using different methods and techniques of
data collection including, questionnaire survey, interview library search and satellite images
processing.
The research revealed that, the anthropogenic activities and poor implementation of
environmental policy, lead to coastal wetlands degradation and loss. Consequently, this leads to
the reduction of water quality and loss of biodiversity in the coastal wetlands.
Finally, for having sustainable solutions for better future management of Lake Muhazi coastal
wetlands, it is recommended to provide information, trainings and education to public regarding
management and protection of coastal wetlands resources. To apply all the environmental rules
regarding the punishment sanctions as provided in environmental and Coastal wetland law. In
that respect there should be the personnel at sector level especially in rural areas in charge of
environment mainly in coastal wetland resources instead of mixing environment issues with
agronomist attributions.
Key words: coastal wetlands, value of coastal wetlands, coastal wetlands degradation and loss,
coastal wetlands management and conservation, coastal wetlands exploitation.

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List of acronyms and abbreviations
CGIS: Centre for Geographic Information System
FAO: Food and Agriculture Organization
GIS: Geographic Information System
MINAGRI: Ministry of Agriculture
MINITERE : Ministère des Terres, de l‟Réinstallation et de l‟Environnement
MINIRENA : Ministry of Minéral and Natural Resource
RNRA: Rwanda Natural Resources Authority
REMA: Rwanda Environment Management Authority
UNDP: United Nation Development Program
UNEP: United Nation for Environment Protection
UR : University of Rwanda

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List of figures and tables
Figure 1: Map showing Rutunga sector........................................................................................ 30
Figure 2: Flowchart presenting the input data, analyses and products....................................... 32
Figure 3: shows the satellites images classification procedures .................................................. 35
Figure 4: Muhazi coastal wetlands cover classification in 2000................................................... 37
Figure 5: Muhazi coastal wetlands cover classification in 2015................................................... 37
Figure 6: Muhazi coastal wetland change detection map between 2000-2015 .......................... 37
Figure 7: Lake Muhazi coastal wetlands cover comparison between 2000-2015........................ 38
Figure 8: Lake Muhazi coastal wetland cover change in Ha between 2000-2015 ....................... 40
Figure 9: Change in Muhazi coastal wetland Cover from 2000 to 2015 (in hectares) ................. 40
Figure 10: Percentage change of Muhazi coastal wetland between 2000-2015 ......................... 41
Figure 11: Figure that shows the percentages of factors cause Muhazi coastal wetlands change
....................................................................................................................................................... 42
Figure 12: The figure shows the human activities carried out in Muhazi coastal wetlands ........ 43
Figure 13: photo showing agricultural activities around Muhazi Lake......................................... 44
Figure 14: photo showing commercial activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands ............................. 45
Figure 15: photo showing settlement and developed infrastructure in Muhazi coastal wetlands
....................................................................................................................................................... 45
Figure 16: photo showing road construction in Muhazi coastal wetlands................................... 46
Figure 17: figure showing sand mining in Muhazi coastal wetlands............................................ 47
Figure 18: Photo that shows the grazing activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands.......................... 48
Figure 19: Photo showing recreational activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands ............................ 48
Figure 20: Photo showing Transport activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands ................................ 49
Figure 21: pie chart that show the role of coastal wetlands conservation.................................. 51
Figure 22: pie chart that shows the strategies that were taken for Muhazi coastal wetlands
conservation ................................................................................................................................. 52
Figure 23: photo showing terracing activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands ................................. 53
Figure 24: Photo showing accuracy assessment of land cover map production of 2000 ............ 62
Figure 25: Photo showing accuracy assessment of land cover map production of 2015 ............ 62
Figure 26: photos show the change detection statistical table of Muhazi coastal wetlands ...... 63

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1. Introduction
Wetlands are major feature of the landscape in almost all parts of the world. Many cultures have
lived and also depended up on the wetland for centuries. But the modern history of wetlands is
fraught with misunderstanding and fear about wetlands. For many reasons wetlands have been
disappearing at alarming rates in many developed and developing countries. However, of late,
many of their values are being appreciated. Today, protection of wetlands is a focus in many
parts of the world Kar (2013).
Till day, there is possibly no means to estimate the impacts the humans had on the global
scenarios of wetlands. It is perhaps, only to observe that impacts have been ranging from
significant to total in most heavily populated regions of the world. Nevertheless, the importance
of the wetlands environments in the development with the wetlands and they had benefited from
surrounding wetlands. On the other hand, others cultures had quickly drained the wetlands
landscape (Kar, 2013).
Wetlands provide valuable and countless functions to the environment including: maintenance of
water quality, deduction in erosion, protection from floods, provision of a natural system to
process airborne pollutants, provision of a buffer zone between urban residential and industrial
segments to ameliorate climate and physical impacts for example noise, control insect
population, provide habitats for fish and other organisms and produce food, fibre and fodder to
name a few.
In spite of the positive role of wetlands, these ecosystems are under intense pressure from
various factors that lead to their exploitation and degradation. Wetlands are exploited in both
rural and urban areas, for example, through their use as dumping grounds for human and
industrial waste (Ramsar, 2016).In addition, some wetlands have been degraded by either
reclaiming or changing the ecosystem to other land uses. Research in Canada has estimated the
extent of wetland loss and degradation due to human use. The findings revealed that in the last
two hundred years, approximately 14 percent of wetlands have been changed to other land-uses
such as agriculture, residential complexes and industrial areas.
Some countries have realized the potential of wetlands to the environment. For instance,
Australia, a developed country, values wetlands for the amenity value they provide. Uganda, a
developing country, values wetlands for the products they offer such as green bananas and wild
fruits. In other words, wetlands are valued for different purposes in both the developed and
developing world.
In Rwanda the abundance of water resources is reflected by the existence of a network of
wetlands in various parts of the country. Wetlands and aquatic lands are generally represented by
lakes, rivers and wetlands associated with these lakes and rivers. The water resources are mainly
influenced by rainfall and evaporation and hence climate information and preparedness are

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essential in the management of water resources. The country‟s hydrological network includes
numerous lakes and rivers and its associated wetlands. A recent inventory of wetlands in Rwanda
conducted in 2008 identified shows 2860 wetlands, covering a total surface of 278 536 ha, which
corresponds to 10.6percentof the country surface, 101 lakes covering 149487 ha (Sylvere
Hategekimana, January 2007).
Rwanda is one country that has dedicated its human and capital resources to conserving and
managing wetlands. Through Rwanda‟s wetlands conservation strategies, wetland was identified
as an important ecosystem. Yet Rwanda coastal wetlands are also home to industries, despite
opposition from industries in the wetland, the Rwandan government has made the bold decision
to relocate the entire industrial area to make way for the rehabilitation of the ecosystem. This
report focuses on the policies and events leading up to this decision (Sylvere Hategekimana,
January 2007).
1.1.Research problem
The reasoning behind to establish the coastal wetlands management is generally the following:
There is a need to protect the lakes from encroachment from local population and from the
destructive activities that take place outside the lake but that affect conservation inside.
However, there is recognition of the legitimate needs of the local population. Many authors
believe that providing benefits in the shoreline management will create an incentive for local
people and provide for their needs, and the result will be that local people will not extract
resources from the lakes anymore. In Rwanda the coastal wetlands are destroyed so our research
is looking up how it can be managed and what are the strategies that were taken to manage those
wetlands and the impacts that the strategies play on the environment that surround it.
1.2. Research objectives
1.2.1. General objectives
The overall objective of this research is to analyse the management of the coastal wetlands
around Lake Muhazi in Gasabo District.
1.2.2. Specific objectives
Table 1: Table showing specific objectives and research questions
Specific objectives Research questions
I. To analyse the spatial evolution of coastal
wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake from recent
years to now.
1. What was the spatial evolution of wetlands
bordering Muhazi lake?
2. What were the causes?
3. How are coastal wetlands managed in Rwanda
and near Muhazi lake in particular?

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II. To analyse the impacts of anthropogenic
activities on the environment in the coastal
wetland.
4. What are the anthropogenic activities that
affect coastal wetlands management?
5. What were the impacts of anthropogenic
activities on coastal wetlands?
III. To assesses the strategies taken by the
government for the management of the
coastal wetlands.
6. Why is the protection of coastal wetlands
necessary?
7. What are the strategies that are taken to
manage the coastal wetlands and what is
missing?
1.3.Scope of research
This research addresses a real-world problem: the degradation of coastal wetlands bordering
lakes in Rwanda, so our research is look at the all sectors coastal wetlands bordering Lake
Muhazi. It aims to facilitate the process of defining coastal wetlands management actions that
can reverse the decline of the lake coastal wetlands, by filling knowledge gaps. However, in
filling the knowledge gaps, it follows a scientific research approach, trying to test the limits of
established scientific theory. Although the study focuses on a whole coastal wetland of all
sectors bordering Lake Muhazi, attempts are made to present and discuss the findings of the
study in a broader logical context.
1.4. Research interest and motivation
Our research is based on how the coastal wetlands are managed to reach to the sustainable
environment such as the protection of water from the pollution and avoid erosion around the
coastal wetlands after our research we can able to show how we can integrate the anthropogenic
activities with the strategies that was taken by the government for the coastal wetlands protection
and we should able to know the impacts of that management on the living organisms surround
there.
1.5. Significance of the study
The study was mostly, but not entirely, restricted to the coastal wetlands bordering Lake Muhazi
due to the logistical difficulties of covering the whole coastal wetlands. It is assumed that the
studied portion of those coastal wetlands bordering Lake Muhazi gives us a reasonable
representation of coastal wetlands management especially in Rwanda.
1.6. Limitations of the study
In conducting this research, the researchers have been faced with some challenges due to
modification factors in the case of data collection where the respondents were not able to provide
truly information at the time of completing questionnaire survey in well style as it was required

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and responding question well in the time of interview. This challenge was mostly due to
inadequate skills and some people are illiterate which was a hinder at the time of questionnaire
compilation. Insufficient of money, this is a big issue challenged us in data collection because
from Nyarugenge campus to Muhazi lake where our study area is located required high amount
of money in terms of transport fees and some roads in Gasabo district were inaccessible.
1.7. Research organization
This study was organized in five chapters. The first chapter was “introduction” includes
background information to the research topic, problem statement, objectives and research
questions, significance and limitation of study, scope of study, and it ended by research
organization.
The second chapter was” Literature review” defines key terms used in this research and gives a
general understanding of the key concept in management of coastal wetlands.
The third chapter was “Research methodology and materials” describes secondary and primary
data collection as well as analysis and interpretation. Materials used were also provided in this
chapter.
The fourth chapter was” Research findings and Discussion” present findings from the field and
the interpretation of the data. It emphasised on the coastal wetlands change, the factors that were
caused the change of the coastal wetlands, the coastal wetlands management in Rwanda, the
anthropogenic activities and their impacts on the coastal wetlands, the role of coastal wetlands
conservation and some strategies that were taken for Rutunga coastal wetlands conservation.
Finally, the fifth chapter” General conclusion and recommendations” contains a conclusion and
recommendations based on research findings and analysis in order to mitigate the upcoming
environmental effects and rehabilitate the damaged coastal wetlands.

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2. Literature review
It is known that coastal wetlands are among the world‟s most biologically dynamic ecosystems
and that are rich in species variety. Wetlands perform a number of ecosystem services, some of
them are well recognized, others less so, and are internationally recognized as being one of the
most important ecosystems for the conservation of biodiversity(Moses, 2008).Wetlands were
internationally recognized as significant ecosystems through the Ramsar Convention of 1971,
which is an intergovernmental treaty that was implemented in 1975. Thus, it is approximately
thirty-seven years since wetlands were identified as significant ecosystems to the environment.
Furthermore, wetlands are important ecosystems to both humans and the natural environment.
However, wetlands have been exploited and this has led to loss and degradation of these natural
ecosystems.(Blench, 1996)supports this when he states that all wetlands are under threat from a
variety of locally or regionally based human activities. The response to this problem has been the
development of management and conservation efforts to protect or rehabilitate wetlands.
2.1. Defining “wetland”
Various definitions of wetlands exist. EPA describes wetland as an area of permanent, seasonal
or intermittent inundation with fresh, saline, static or flowing water(EPA, 1993). According to
Copeland defines wetland as a land area that is saturated with water, either permanently or
seasonally, such that it takes on characteristics that distinguish it as a distinct ecosystem(Claudia
Copeland, December 5, 2013).
Wetlands can be described as regions with low water levels, often near ground surface, which are
covered by active plants during the growing season and water saturation period (Meng Guo 16
January 2017). Rwanda draft land bill defined wetland as plain area between hills or mountains
recognizable by their swampy nature, biodiversity and plants like papyrus and reeds
(MINIRENA, 2004). As a result, it has proved difficult to define wetlands. The most broadly
accepted definition of wetlands is one given by the Convention on Wetlands of International
Importance, also known as the Ramsar Convention which is: “areas of marsh, fen, peat land or
water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static oar flowing,
fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not
exceed six meters” (Ramsar, 2016).
As well as wetland type, they are different. Each wetland differs due to variations in soils,
Salinity levels, supported flora and fauna, landscape, climate, water regime and chemistry,
surrounding geography and human disturbance (EPA, 1993). Wetlands are made up primarily of
hydric soil, which supports aquatic plants. Typically, wetlands include lakes, swamps, marshes
and dams, wet grasslands and peat lands, estuaries, oases, deltas, near shore marine areas, coral

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reefs, rivers, streams and springs and intertidal sand flats, mud plain, mangroves and human‐
made sites such as fish ponds and rice paddies.
2.2. Importance of wetlands
It is relatively clear that wetlands are highly diverse and that they support a great diversity of life.
They are essential for human well-being. They contain numerous goods and services that have an
economic value not only to local populations but also to people living outside the periphery of
the wetland (D.Schuyt, 2005). They deliver a range of benefits or ecosystem services including
provisioning services, such as irrigation, fibre and energy production, food resources including
fishing, hunting and regulating services, such as recharge of groundwater and protection from
natural hazards, which are critical to sustaining vital ecosystem functions.
Wetlands are some of the most important and valuable ecosystems on Earth and are called
“kidneys of the Earth”. There are two basic types of wetlands: natural and constructed. Wetlands
can improve water quality, protect shorelines, recharge groundwater, ease ﬂood and drought
severity, and provide unique habitats for many plants and animals. Scientists and government
staff have paid increasing attention to wetlands to maintain the biodiversity of the aquatic system
(Meng Guo 16 January 2017).
According to Jessica Campese wetlands provide habitat, cover and a feeding area for
invertebrates, birds, mammals, amphibians and many specialized plants. Wetlands support high
species diversity, and make a significant contribution to livelihoods and economies, especially
for poorer and more vulnerable groups. Wetlands are identified as one of the key life support
systems on this planet in concert with agricultural lands (Campese, 2008).
In addition to these benefits, wetlands are sources of wildlife, fish, wood and several non-timber
products that are widely used by neighbouring populations. Most importantly, wetland soils can
have great agricultural potential when properly used (REMA, 2009). Often wetlands are the only
source of precious resources for endangered and/or endemic species. Wetlands are also sources
of food, shelter, essential breeding, spawning, nesting and wintering habitats for fish and
wildlife. These include migratory birds, endangered species and commercially and recreationally
important species.
Some of the wetland functions that Rwandans benefit from include nutrient cycling, conservation
of water quality, reduction in erosion, sediment and pollution retention, flood mitigation and
groundwater re-charge (MINAGRI, April 2009). REMA in 2009 argued that wetlands in Rwanda
have been used in different ways and that they have a great role to play in the national economy.
The main functions of wetlands in Rwanda include agriculture production, hydrological

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functions, biodiversity reservoirs, peat reserve, mitigation of climate change, leisure and tourism
and cultural value(REMA, 2009).
2.3 Wetland degradation and loss
In their natural state, wetlands perform ecological functions, which are vitally important to the
environment and economic health of the Nation and impossible or costly to replace (Makoloo,
2006). However due to a steadily increasing population accompanied by a reduction in open
lands, wetlands are threatened. All over the world wetlands are under threat and are being
destroyed at an alarming rate. Approximately fifty per cent of the wetlands in the World have
been lost (Shumbusho, 2010). Wetlands have progressively been lost and degraded due to human
activities for thousands of years.
Millennium Ecosystem Assessment determined that environmental degradation is more
prominent within wetland systems than any other ecosystem on Earth, resulting in an alarming
extinction of species and a regression and/or destruction of ecosystems (Assessmet, 2005). The
major causes of wetlands degradation more specifically in developing countries, is precisely the
lack of knowledge by government planners, natural resource managers and wetland users,
overexploitation and poor land management (Vanghani, April 2007).
The primary indirect drivers of degradation and loss of inland and coastal wetlands have been
increasing human population and their various activities which have contributed to the decline of
quality and quantity of wetlands due to pressure beyond the ecosystem carrying capacity. In this
context, wetlands have been put under intensive cultivation for crops such as sugarcane, rice,
flowers, sweet potatoes, and eucalyptus. Other uses include conversion of wetlands into livestock
grazing areas.
The primary direct drivers of degradation and loss include infrastructure development, land
conversion, reducing soil fertility, effects of pollution, mining, quarrying, overharvesting and
overexploitation, and the introduction of invasive alien species (Assessmet, 2005).Global climate
change is expected to exacerbate the loss and degradation of many wetlands and the loss or
decline of their species and to increase the incidence of vector-borne and waterborne diseases in
many regions. In addition to this, the planned propagation of large-scale commercial purpose
activities in wetlands are likely to fall on the shoulders of these socially disadvantaged and are
likely to threaten the natural equilibrium of them (Kathrin, 2006).
Several negative environmental impacts of wetlands degradation are declining soil fertility,
reduction and loss of biodiversity, soil erosion leading to increased sediment load downstream,
water pollution due to use of agro-chemicals or to human and livestock waste, and impact on
water quantity on-site and downstream (Assessmet, 2005).

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2.4. Wetland management and conservation
Unreliable rainfall has caused many farmers to resort to wetlands which have a steady water
supply, meaning that wetlands with freely flowing water are now under stress and destruction
from agriculture and other productive activities. The destruction of these wetlands do not only
lead in a reduction in biodiversity and the endangerment of species which depend upon them, but
also leads to a loss in social and economic benefits for the local people who depend on such
wetlands and their biodiversity (REMA, 2009).
All over the World, wetlands management is applied to degrading wetlands in order to conserve
successfully wetlands and their biodiversity and develop them for the present and future
generations. Conservation of wetland ecosystems is essential not only for sustainable fresh water
supply but also for preserving biodiversity and ensuring other services necessary to the health
and well-being of people around the world. The priority when making choices about wetlands
management decisions is to ensure that the ecosystem services of the wetland are maintained,
and where appropriate, restored (Ramsar, 2007).
Management of wetlands and water resources is most successfully addressed through integrated
management at the river (or lake or aquifer) basin scale that is linked to coastal zone
management for coastal and near-shore wetlands and that takes into account water allocations for
the ecosystems. Maintaining the natural functioning of wetlands through an appropriate
management will enable them to continue to deliver appropriate services (Ramsar, 2016).
2.5. Wetlands and their exploitation in Rwanda
Rwanda is a country whose geological history has permitted a succession of valleys, hills,
plateaus and mountain (Sylvere Hategekimana, January 2007).In Rwanda, wetlands and aquatic
lands are generally represented by lakes, marshes, rivers and marshes associated with these lakes
and rivers. In the Rwandan context, the term "marsh" is often used to define all types of
wetlands, either peat bogs of high altitude like Rugezi, or complexes of the big valleys of peaty
soils of Bugesera or Akagera or group of valleys of mineralized soils used for the agriculture or
the pasture (MINITERE, 2004).
In terms of wetland types, Rwanda has rivers, waterway and lakes (MINITERE, 2004). With
regard to rivers, Rwanda is at the top of the Nile basin. The most important rivers are: Akagera,
Nyabarongo, Akanyaru, Ruhwa, Rusizi, Mukungwa, Kagitumba and Muvumba. As for
wetlands, the biggest are found around the above mentioned rivers. Most of them are of low
altitude, and Kamiranzovu and Rugezi are the only major high altitude marshes. The following
table shows the surface areas of the 6 biggest marshes of Rwanda.

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2.6. The cause of change of coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake.
Natural factor and anthropogenic ones are found to be responsible the direct causes affect
ecosystem, including climate change, the diversion of fresh water flows, Nitrogen loading, over-
harvesting, siltation, Change in temperature of water and species invasions. The indirect ones
include population growth, economic development, social politics, technological advancement
social culture and life style and religion and so on.
2.6.1. Natural factors
Many natural factors can influence the formation and distribution of wetlands, such as geologic
structure, landform, climate, hydrology, vegetation and soil geologic structure and landform are
two basics ones in natural ecologic composition which are formed in geologic epoch and
unlikely to change too much in several decades (Zhenglei Xie, 2009). All the factors have to be
considered in different time and space while the time scale of human activities is relatively short,
often like only hundreds of years. Factors of meteorology and climatology are basis of ecology
and environment which have fundamental effects on wetlands landscape change.
Climate is the basis of the formation and development of wetland and the most essential factors
in wetlands formation. The influence of climate change on wetland is embodied in temperature
and precipitation. Climate change can greatly influence the circulation of elements of wetlands
ecosystem, energy flow, productivity, distribution and function of wetland. At the same time the
pendulum of wetland can change wetland ecosystem and accelerate the velocity of climate
change. Moreover, the impacts of human activities upon wetland are accomplished through
changing hydro-thermal condition.
The amount of precipitation has direct influence on the change of wetland area and continuous
lessening of rainfall can lead to the weakening and degradation of wetlands change. Change of
temperatures can influence evaporation process, wetlands vegetation, and soil while the decrease
of precipitation reduces the supply of demanding water for wetland climate change affect human
activities. In turns human beings increases the utility of fresh water to satisfy the demand of
urban and agriculture development for water, which in turn will lead to the reduction of run-off,
Water level fluctuation and the decline and degradation of wetland (Zhenglei Xie, 2009).
2.6.2. Anthropogenic factors
Human activities are becoming the main factors of wetlands changes at present. However,
human activities can accelerate or avoid wetlands degradation, depending on how they change
the relationship between human kind and nature. The research on how the anthropogenic factors
influence coastal wetland utilization structure can be greatly helpful for optimizing the structure
of land use and raising the utilization of rate of wetland. Also the degradation and loss of
wetlands have been caused by infrastructural construction, land use conversion, over exploitation
of wood and the introduction of invasive alien species (Zhenglei Xie, 2009).

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Population growth and economic development are two main forces causing Muhazi coastal
wetlands degradation. They can also lead to shrinking of coastal wetlands as a result of urban
and sub-urban expansion human pressures on rapidly diminishing areas of coastal wetlands are
increasingly destroying many of ecosystem services that are crucial to the well-being of coastal
economy and people‟s life.
More importantly, most people living in Muhazi coastal wetlands are poor and have no other
livelihoods. So, the rapid growth population lead to high demand of crop products from land and
entailed the expansion of agriculture.
2.7. Impacts of anthropogenic activities on coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake.
Increasing human population, coupled with the growing need for increased food production to
meet the high demand, have put tremendous pressure on wetlands around the world. At the
global level, human activities pose the greatest threat to the well-being of wetlands, resulting in
either their loss or degradation.
The impact of anthropogenic activity cumulatively results in structural and functional responses
of the water ecosystems and its biota. Therefore, the assessment of anthropogenic impact is
extremely important for understanding the ecology and biodiversity of coastal zone and
management of its resources.
In Rwanda, man-induced threats are many and more harmful to the biodiversity in the coastal
wetlands. The main ones are:
1. Population pressure
2. Population resettlement
3. Overexploitation of biological resources
4. Uncontrolled introduction of exotic species
5. Poaching and pirating
6. Bush fires
7. Conflicts and wars
 Population pressure
The population of Rwanda has been extremely growing and this has put pressure on natural
ecosystems. The effect of this pressure is an increased demand of natural resources (land, water,
energy, foodstuffs, etc.) within the coastal wetlands. Coastal wetland clearing for agriculture and
grazing, house building, removal of species in coastal area for traditional medical purposes, etc,
modification and destruction of habitats which, ultimately, lead to the extinction of some species.
Land reclamation and the development of marshes and depressions cause hydric imbalances of
wet ecosystems, and this affects the fauna and flora of these ecosystems. Most of the marshes in

20
Rwanda have been reclaimed without appropriate facilities for good water management
(irrigation - drainage), which resulted in the extinction of some aquatic plant species. The
phytoplankton and spawning grounds are destroyed, leading to the depletion of the wealth and
other river and marsh-living animals.
 Resettlement of the population
During and after the 1994 genocide, there was considerable movement of the people in the
country. In addition, many houses and social infrastructure were destroyed. After these events,
the country faced the resettlement of the returnees and internally displaced persons. Some people
were being carried to settle in the coastal wetlands area, this resettlement which was carried out
in an emergency situation constituted a serious threat to biodiversity within the coastal wetlands.
In fact, the tons of wood consumed during this process of resettlement sped up deforestation
within the coast area by cutting down to get the wood needed for those activities.
 Over-exploitation of biological resources
In Rwanda, overexploitation of biological resources within the coastal wetlands has been one of
the most important threats to biodiversity. In fact, the age-old use of certain irrational techniques
and practices has resulted in the gradual reduction of the production and productivity of
biological resources, the reduction of genetic potential and the extinction of some species.
The immediate economic interest of certain biological resources has increased their over-
exploitation by the population living in the vicinity that often neglect or ignore other alternative
sources of income. For example, the fish wealth of lakes is threatened by the use of nets with
very fine meshes which hold the fries. Likewise, continued use of the soil without adding
fertilizers or soil amendments or without biological practices is harmful to the soil‟s fauna and
flora.
 Uncontrolled introduction of exotic species
Uncontrolled introduction of new species in an ecosystem, be it deliberate or accidental, may be
harmful to native biodiversity. The risks that go with uncontrolled introduction of exotic species
include the following, among others:
 Dominance of exotic species over native ones;
 Competition, loss and lack of appreciation of the identity of local species and varieties;
 Introduction of new uncontrollable diseases;
 Uncontrolled cross-breeding;
 Dependence on the outside for certain species; and
 Colonization of certain areas by exotic species.

21
Very often, the introduction of plant varieties and animal breeds is carried out informally
(particularly from neighbouring countries) by peasants and traders without prior authorization by
competent technical authorities.
According to estimate human beings, on an average produce about 100 g of raw sewage per
person per day, and that in the sewerage system flow is around 180 litres per person per day.
Addition of nutrient like nitrate and phosphate has a stimulating effect on phytoplankton growth
and primary production, to a certain extent. The introduction of nutrient rich sewage changes the
algal community through eutrophication in the coastal wetlands. The concentration of heavy
metals in the coastal wetlands is another case of anthropogenic activity that results to coastal
wetlands destruction.
The introduction of green agriculture in Rwanda has improved our food production considerable
during the last few decades. It was made possible due to the availability of chemical fertilizers,
insecticides and pesticides. There is an increase in the use of pesticides every year. The
continuance in the use of chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides (DDTs) and Polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs) are of major concern because of their persistence in the environment and
accumulation in the food chain. PCBs and DDTs are the kind of toxic chemicals that are
persistent and able to last several years before breaking down.
Plastic pollution involves the accumulation of plastic products in the coastal wetlands that
adversely affects wildlife, wildlife habitat, or humans. Plastics contain many different types of
chemicals, depending on the type of plastic and its toxicity varies according to its chemical
composition.
The fisheries have changed rapidly during the last few decades due to new technological
development and expansion. The ever-increasing population and demand for food had put extra
pressure on the fishery sector. It has enhanced the fishing pressure on the coastal resources,
leading to overcapitalization and overfishing of some of the fish stocks. The exploitation has
exceeded the natural rate of renewal resulting in over-fishing and decline catches.
 Effect of anthropogenic activities on fisheries: There is a recognized connection
between fisheries and marine ecosystem but gaps exist in the scientific knowledge of the
impact of fisheries upon the ecosystem and of the impact of the environmental changes
and pollution on fisheries. About 75% of world marine fish stocks are declining due to
anthropogenic activities. Fish may be impacted by all human activities that alter the
marine environment such as pollution by hazardous substances, industrial effluents and
radioactive substances, excessive input of nutrients, introduction of alien species. The
responsible factors attributed are over-fishing, loss of spawning ground and introduction
of anthropogenic material.
 Effect of anthropogenic activity to marine biodiversity: The coastal wetlands have
become quite vulnerable to man‟s destructive forces of pollution. Where coastal land or
waters are altered for human activities the habitat of other resident species (terrestrial,

22
freshwater and marine) is also altered. Some of these habitat changes may completely
remove resident species. Others may harm some species and benefit others, altering the
ecosystems themselves. Pressures from coastal pollution may affect the quality of life of
estuarine and coastal waters. Large inputs of wastes of domestic and industrial nature
including oil pollution has burdened the marine environment, the effect of which can be
seen in reduced biodiversity at several hot spots and decline in fish catches. Coastal
developmental activities contribute to habitat loss in a number of ways.
 Effect of Tourism and Recreation on coastal wetlands: Coastal areas provide many
opportunities for leisure and recreation that attracts both local people and tourists from
inland and abroad. Camping and bathing, sailing, recreational fishing, beach volleyball,
surfing, scuba diving and bird and dolphin watching are among the most popular
activities. The growth of tourism has also its negative effect on the environment. The
coastal waters including bay, estuary backwater and stream are home for a number of
fauna and flora. In the absence of stringent planning controls and sensitive development
policies, the attributes of coastal areas that are most attractive to visitors such as clean
beaches coast, sea water fit for bathing and wildlife refuges, can be harmed by the sheer
numbers of visitors, construction and excessive vehicles and pedestrian traffic.
 Effect of sand mining on coastal wetland: Removal of sand from their natural habitat
for construction work is the sand mining. This practice is an age old practice followed
everywhere. Sand mining is of great importance to our economy. It should however, be
recognized that it has great potential for disrupting the natural environment.
2.8. The strategies that are taken to manage the coastal wetlands and missing in
coastal wetlands management.
As we know the coastal wetland have been destroyed by human activities, so for better
management of that coastal wetland management there were some strategies that are taken by the
government of Rwanda but on the other hand there were some limitation to those strategies.
2.8.1. Strategies for coastal wetlands management
For improving water and wetlands resources, there are some laws, policies which concern with
this which are adopted as opportunities to the people.
2.8.2. Organic Law on the environment
It provides the legal framework for the management of environment which was put in place by
the Government of Rwanda by the organic law N0
4/2005 of 8 April 2005 putting in place the
modalities to protect, safeguard and promote environment in Rwanda. That law governs
environment in its broadest term (land, agriculture, forests, water, biodiversity, etc.). Within

23
heavy agriculture in the hills around and deforestation of the small artificial forest and the
Gishwati and poor implementation of environmental policy, as it is stated in Official Gazette in
its articles 85, 86, and 87.
With exception of activities related to protection and conservation of streams, rivers and lakes,
the agricultural activities shall respect a distance of 10 meters away from the banks of streams
and rivers and fifty 50 meters away from the banks of lakes. In such distances there shall be no
agricultural activities permitted to be carried out. The order of the Minister having environment
in his or her attributions determines a list of rivers mentioned in this article, and specifies other
limits to be respected regarding streams(GOR, 2005).
No pastoral activities that require agricultural activities in swamps that shall be carried out
without respecting a distance of ten 10 metres away from the banks of rivers and 50 metres away
from the lake banks. Cattle kraals shall be built in a distance of 60metres away from the banks of
streams and rivers and 200 metres away from the lake banks. The location of fish ponds as well
as species of fish to be used in fish farming shall require authorization from the Minister having
environment in his or her attributions or any other person the Minister shall delegate.
It is prohibited to construct houses in wetlands (rivers, lakes, big or small swamps), in urban or
rural areas, to build markets there, a sewage plant, a cemetery and any other buildings that may
damage such a place in various ways. All buildings shall be constructed in a distance of at least
twenty 20 metres away from the bank of the swamp. If it is considered necessary, construction of
buildings intended for the promotion of tourism may be authorised by the Minister having
environment in his or her attributions. It is also prohibited to carry out any activities, except
those related to research and science, in reserved swamps(GOR, 2005).
The National Environmental Policy has been put in place since November 2003 and the main
objective is to ensure sustainable protection and management of environment and natural
resources in Rwanda. Protection and management of environment is among the pillars of the
Vision 2020. From 2002 to the year 2020, the Government intends to build a nation where the
pressure on natural resources, especially land, water, biomass, biodiversity, is reasonably
reduced and the process of pollution and degradation of environment is controlled.
The Organic Law on the Environment 2005 provides the strongest protection measures for
Rwanda‟s natural resources and assets. Several provisions are specific to wetlands, including
prohibited uses in wetlands and prohibitions on dumping waste in and burning of wetlands. The
law also requires that the use of wetlands shall be subject to a prior Environmental Impact
Assessment(GOR, 2005).
Through the law, the State is responsible for identifying reserved wetlands for purposes of
protection, conservation, and rehabilitation. Decentralized government entities are responsible
for determining efficient management and effective use of wetlands. In terms of limiting activity
within wetlands, the law prohibits development within 20 meters from wetland boundaries by
setting a buffer zone that restricts structures within proximity to wetlands(John Heermans, 2015).

24
Coastal marsh restoration and creation efforts have been more successful than similar inland
attempts. This success appears to be due largely to researchers' ability to predict more accurately
the key component, hydrologic patterns, in tidally influenced areas than in freshwater settings.
Also, coastal restoration efforts have perhaps had a longer history than freshwater wetland
restoration.
Restoration of coastal marshes and creation of salt marshes on dredge spoil has been found to
facilitate shoreline aggradations, stabilize beach erosion, and protect landowners from the
impacts of storms. Restoration of wetlands on eroding shorelines can protect critical habitat for
marine life and freshwater aquatic life as well as reduce land subsidence.
2.8.3. The problems or missing in coastal wetlands management
Currently, the management of wetlands constitutes a challenge to the riparian countries. The
degraded state of the wetlands and the series of pressures and threats that these ecosystems face,
are indicators of the difficult circumstances.
 Insufficient data, information and knowledge
Availability of data is an important challenge in the management and conservation of wetlands.
In order to guide the sustainable utilization of wetlands and conservation and planning processes,
regular monitoring of the status of wetlands is necessary. The data and information available in
the wetland are still limited and fragmented.
There is no baseline available and no periodic and systematic monitoring and update of the
wetland inventory. Knowledge of the precise functions that the wetlands perform and their
economic value is limited.
 Limited capacities at the national level
Existing technical, institutional, and financial capacities for the implementation of wetland
management are limited at the national level, which might contribute to the existing degradation
of coastal wetland. It is necessary to strengthen capacities at the operational level and country
„coordination abilities to support the implementation and enforcement of existing policies.
 Inadequate institutional framework for wetlands management
Most interventions in coastal wetlands resources management so far, both local and international
have addressed the development of urban and rural resources supply. There have been only

25
minimal efforts specifically targeting issues of quality and quantity of coastal wetlands
resources. Where such interventions have existed, changing mandates and relocations of
government departments have greatly affected their implementation.
 The lack of a formal set of procedures
The absence of a formal set of procedures to determine the use of wetlands, currently in Rwanda
the management strategies operate under the limited provisions afforded by existing policies and
ministerial orders determining protections for the environment, land use policy and tenure
reforms. Since these policies are not specific to wetlands, management approaches vary as
provisions for wetlands within existing laws are not consistently interpreted by land
administrators, particularly at decentralized levels of government. Of the draft policies currently
being considered, a lack of detail is still apparent, possibly due to the need to accommodate
competing interests between wetland use and protection (John Heermans, 2015).
2.9. The management of coastal wetlands.
As we know coastal wetlands have many ecological values and function in order to protect those
functions and values the management are required or taken in different part of the world for
avoiding coastal wetlands destruction.
2.9.1. Coastal wetlands management in Rwanda
Subsequent to the degradation of some critical ecosystems that mostly caused severe
environmental and socio-economic threats, the government of Rwanda has been very much
concerned about wetlands resource management, it therefore put in place conditions of use and
seriously cautions wetland users to go compliant for ensuring the sustainability of these fragile
resources (REMA, 2013). As to REMA, every wetland is not free for use, and for unconditional
wetlands, prohibited is any activity that may damage such a place in any way regardless of the
function of these fragile ecosystems. Drainage is one of such practices and has to abide by the
provisions of existing environmental protection regulations.
Wetlands in Rwanda are protected by Organic Law N° 04/2005 of 08/04/2005 determining the
modalities of protection, conservation and promotion of environment in Rwanda which prohibits
unsustainable. The law is based on the appreciation that ecosystems as providers of basic life-
support services including food clean water and medicine as well as economic services for
livelihoods. Ecosystem services regulate, surface and ground water quality and quantity, natural
life propagation and renewal, climate and its effects including flooding, disease(GOR, 2005).
Interventions by REMA that included assisting local communities to stop all exploitation
activities in the wetland and finding viable livelihood activities as well as protecting legislated

26
20m buffer zone of the wetland by planting trees resulted in the restoration of near original
functioning of the wetland.
The National Environmental Policy has been in place since November 2003 and the main
objective is to ensure sustainable protection and management of environment and natural
resources in Rwanda. Protection and management of environment is among the pillars of the
Vision 2020. From 2002 to the year 2020, the Government intends to build a nation where the
pressure on natural resources, especially land, water, biomass, biodiversity, is reasonably
reduced and the process of pollution and degradation of environment is controlled. The most
effective way to maintain wetland carbon pools and prevent emissions to the atmosphere is
avoiding conversion and drainage through protection and sustainable management. Restoration
of degraded ecosystems has a dual benefit: reducing ongoing losses and rebuilding carbon stores.
2.9.2. Laws and Policies governing Muhazi coastal Wetland in Rwanda
Agricultural activities are allowed 50 m away from the wetland. No agricultural activity is
allowed within those limits. However, a Governor of Province may decide otherwise according
to the marsh‟s dimensions. In the case of many provinces „convergence on one and same marsh,
it is up to the Governors of involved Provinces to decide; in case of disagreement, the Minister
holding agriculture within his remit shall decide.
It is prohibited to plant in the marshes tree species likely to threaten environment, particularly
those derived from modified living organisms. It is also prohibited to plant eucalyptus and
banana trees in marshes except for the purposes of protecting environment and this only after
consensus between the Ministries holding agriculture, forestry, animal resources and
environment within their responsibility.
The location of fish ponds, as well as species of fishes to be used in fish farming require the
common consensus of the Ministries in charge of animal resources and environment. It is
prohibited to carry out fishing and hunting activities in marshes without a written authorization.
Authorization to fish in marshes is granted by the Ministry holding animal resources within its
remit except for marshes located within the limits of National Parks. For this case, it is up to the
Rwanda development board to issue authorization after consensus with the ministries holding
animal resources and environment within their remit. In case of dispensation, authorization to
hunt in marshes shall be issued by the Rwanda development board (RDB) after consensus with
the Ministry holding environment protection within its remit.
2.9.3. The anthropogenic activities that affects coastal wetlands management
In Africa, particularly in East Africa, numerous coastal wetlands support very important
fisheries, providing a livelihood to millions of people, and contributing significantly to the food

27
supply. Africa‟s coastal wetlands are threatened by certain human factors such as agriculture
activities, over-grazing, Bush-fires, hunting, Fuel wood harvesting.
2.9.3.1. Agricultural activities
Approximately, 92,000 hectares of wetlands in Rwanda are used for traditional agriculture.
Farmers plant sweet potato and corn on the borders of the wetlands. Farmers use the wetlands to
diversify risk in the livelihood strategies. Production is secured in the humid valley
bottoms when the hillsides are dry. Farmers also harvest Papyrus that is used in construction.
The wetlands are rich in organic material.
Agriculture is the basis of Rwanda‟s economy, but now agricultural sector is failing to meet the
demands of rapidly growing population. It is also at the one of the country‟s most serious
environmental problems: land degradation(UNEP, 2006).
The domestication of nature of the Northern and Eastern shores of Lake Muhazi had led to deep
changes in the ecosystems, habitats and biodiversity.
The naturalness around Lake Muhazi can be found only where developments and various
practices are impossible, on the rare strips of lands along the shores or in the aquatic
environment. Otherwise the shores and hinterland are used for agriculture, stock farming and
housing by basically rural populations. Areas most vulnerable to erosion at the higher levels of
the relief have cleared and then reforested using allochtonous species (Kayitesi, 2012).
The marshes too have been taken over by agriculture and some aquatic plant species specific to
the marshes and shallow waters provide an appropriate habitat for birds and some species of
indigenous or commercial fish are exploited. These habitats too are receding. But like most
wetland ecosystems in Rwanda, the natural resources of the Lake Muhazi watershed and
generally throughout the whole region, are continually being degraded due to an anthropo-centric
management of the land areas where the activities and practices are not compatible with the
protection and conservation of nature (Kayitesi, 2012).
2.9.3.2. Grazing
Among activities that threaten Lake Muhazi coastal wetlands is grazing which accounts for 20%.
It is found that there are farms in which people use to look after their animals and are found near
Lake Muhazi. Some farmers have no constructed dams from where cows can get water to drink;
they take them to Lake Muhazi in order to get water for their animals. This has been mostly
found in along whole the coastal wetlands found in Eastern province. Grazing of cows around
Lake Muhazi becomes a threat because they destroy the erosion control grass then later
accelerates erosion (Kayitesi, 2012).

28
2.9.3.3. Bushfires
Bushfires as natural phenomena are beneficial to both the biotic and abiotic components of
ecosystems. However, indiscriminate and repeated anthropogenic bushfires impact negatively on
such ecosystems, and, there-fore, need to be checked. The high incidence of deliberately-set
bushfires in the Muhazi coastal wetland could be explained by the fact that most of the human
activities on the coastal wetland required the use of fire as a short-cut to achieving the desired
results such as hunting and farming (Attuquayefio, 2006). Another reason for the rampant
bushfires in the study area was the inability of the fire-setters to control the fires by using more
efficient methods (e.g. creation of fire barriers). Often, the fire-setters used less effective
materials like tree branches and essentially abandoned the fires to burn out of control.
2.9.3.4. Hunting
In Rwanda, as in other parts of Africa, wild animals are considered destructive and only good for
their meat, and are therefore hunted for protection or as a source of protein for the human
population. Hunting is the commonest source of bush meat is a popular delicacy in both rural and
urban areas of Rwanda, as well as a valuable source of protein, especially for rural communities.
The bush meat prices tend to be higher than those of the traditional sources of protein this favour
people to involve in hunting activities for searching money (Attuquayefio, 2006).
2.9.3.5. Fuel wood harvesting
According to Korem (1985), fuel wood provides the main energy source for both rural and urban
households throughout the entire Africa, with estimates of about 50% of total energy
consumption. Fuel wood plays an important role in human activities like fish smoking and
charcoal production in the essentially coastal wetland community. It was apparent from this
study that over-exploitation of fuel wood has resulted in a reduction in size of fuel wood
harvested, and the use of less-preferred materials like cassava sticks, and tree stumps. Some of
the reasons for fuel wood over-exploitation in the coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake
include:
(i) High costs of alternative energy sources (e.g. LPG, electricity, etc.)
(ii) Alternative uses of fuel wood for non-domestic purposes like fish smoking, ceramics,
pottery, and preparation of “street food”,
(iii) Widespread cutting of small- and medium-sized branches from wild-growing trees
instead of collecting dead fallen wood as pertains in parts of East Africa
(iv) Production of commercial quantities of charcoal, which is in very high demand in
urban areas, because of its lighter weight and slow and hot burning qualities.
2.10. The role of coastal wetlands conservation or protection.

29
Rwanda does not have a wetlands policy and wetlands are currently being managed under the
Environmental Organic Law and the Land Law. Conservation of wetlands is vital particularly in
protecting and promoting wetlands normal functions. Without appropriate management
measures, drainage of wetlands and irrigated agriculture has the potential to create serious
ecological imbalances both at the project site and in adjacent areas. Wetlands are also threatened
by encroachment by other land-uses, reduced inflow from upstream areas, and contamination.
Wetland conservation is aimed at protecting and preserving areas where water exists at or near
the Earth's surface, such as swamps, marshes and bogs. Wetlands cover at least six per cent of
the Earth and have become a focal issue for conservation due to the ecosystem services they
provide. More than three billion people, around half the world‟s population, obtain their basic
water needs from inland freshwater wetlands. The same number of people relies on rice as their
staple food, a crop grown largely in natural and artificial wetlands. In some parts of the world,
such as the Kilombero wetland in Tanzania, almost the entire local population relies on wetland
cultivation for their livelihoods.
Fisheries are also an extremely important source of protein and income in many wetlands.
According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the total catch from inland
waters (rivers and wetlands) was 8.7 million metric tonnes in 2002. In addition to food, coastal
wetlands supply fibre, fuel and medicinal plants. They also provide valuable ecosystems for
birds and other aquatic creatures help reduce the damaging impact of floods, control pollution
and regulate the climate. From economic importance, to aesthetics, the reasons for conserving
wetlands have become numerous over the past few decades.
Coastal wetlands provide important ecosystem services that are vital to the health and well-being
of our nation. They serve as buffers, protecting coastal areas from storm damage and sea level
rise. They are vital to the health of commercially and recreationally important fisheries
resources, providing food and essential fish and shellfish habitat. Wetlands also serve as nesting
and foraging habitat for birds and other wildlife. As “living filters,” wetlands improve water
quality by removing pollutants, nutrients, and sediments. Furthermore, coastal wetlands provide
direct value to people in other ways, such as minimizing erosion of upland, protecting
infrastructure and supporting the tourism, hunting, and fishing sectors of the economy.

30
3. Research methodology
This chapter provides overview method and techniques used to Collect Process, Analyse, and
interpreted and present both secondary and primary data to complement and fulfil the objective
and research question of this conduct research.
3.1. Study area description
Rutunga sector is one of15 Sectors composing Gasabo district. It is located in the North-East of
the district and has over 42.6 Km2, with 19850 Inhabitants, i.e. 466 people sq./km. Sector has
composed of 6 cells which are Gasabo, Indakemwa, Kibenga, Kabariza, Kacyatwa, Kigabiro the
density of population is high. It is bordered by Nduba and Bumbogo sector in the south-west,
Rulindo and Gicumbi in North, lake Muhazi in North-East and Gikomero in the South-
East(district, 2018).
Figure 1: Map showing Rutunga sector
3.2. Materials and methods
The general framework of this research is the management of coastal wetlands. The approach of
this study consists of analysing spatial evolution of coastal wetlands and land cover in relation to
land use change and coastal wetland restoration or conservation. This chapter gives in details
methods and tools used.
Maps of land cover changes were derived from Land-sat image of 2000 and Land-sat image of
2015. Field work will have conducted to collect data of land use and land cover and information

31
about coastal wetlands management. For this purpose, different techniques such field
observation, images processing, statistical analysis, slope calculation were applied to achieve the
objectives of the study.
Topographic data
Land-sat image of
2000 Field work data
Land-sat 2000 and Land-sat
image of 2015
Elevation Contour
map
Processing
Observation human
activities carried on the
coastal wetlands
Processing
Interpolatio
n
DEM
Land cover
bitmap image
Data analysis Land cover map 2000, 2015
Slope
calculation
Slope gradient
image
Conversion into
GIS and ILWIS
Land cover map
2000
Impacts of
anthropogenic
activities on the coastal
wetlands and some
strategies taken for
coastal wetlands
restoration
Cross matrix
Land cover changes 2015
Regression analysis
ANOVA test
Results
Conclusions

32
Figure 2: Flowchart presenting the input data, analyses and products.
3.2.1. Materials
The materials used in this research include Land-sat image of 2000 and Land-sat image of 2015,
a contour map and software of ERDAS imagine, Arc-Map.
Table 2: Data types and information
Data type Data and information required Source
Secondary data Primary data
Remote sensing data TM 2000, Land-sat
2015
Google Earth and
USGS
Land cover Obtained from
Land-sat image
classification
Google Earth and
USGS
Strategies taken for
coastal wetlands
management
Library search,
literature review,
and online search
Field observation
analysis.
Fieldwork, CST
library, internet.
Vegetation data
(maps, shape files)
Types of vegetation Internet on
RCMRD
3.2.2. Research methods
To achieve the research objectives, different data will be used. These data will be collected either
from secondary and primary sources of data. Secondary data were collected in the pre-field
phase of the research design whereas primary data will have taken from survey during the post
field phase of the research.
Primary data
The main techniques for data collection in this study was concerns on field observations and
questionnaire survey which will be given to the people living around Muhazi Lake and other
people have activities around there and the workers of in different activities carried in the
Muhazi coastal wetlands for ask them different information related to the change of Muhazi
coastal wetlands and the strategies taken for conservation.
Data collection procedures
To accomplish the purposes of this study, the following procedures were followed. The
questionnaires were distributed among selected participants. While they had been supported with
any technical or non-technical information demanded. To guarantee a positive participation, the

33
subjects were informed that their answers were confidential and they not be required to write or
give their names at any stage of the study. Participants felt out the questionnaires. While during
the time of interview these methods were used: Editing, coding and tabulation
3.2.2.1. Primary data
Primary data were collected from the field visit and observation; we go to the field for the
observation of how the anthropogenic activities affect those coastal wetlands and to observe how
those coastal wetlands have been managed by looking on some strategies taken by the
government and looking the anthropogenic activities that were carried in Muhazi coastal
wetlands.
Primary data, basically on the value of coastal wetlands management, People‟s options or way to
mitigate and adapt the problem was also observed during the field visit and questionnaire
surveying. Distinguishing coastal wetlands with management from those without management
around Lake Muhazi coastal wetland will do on the field. Photos of the study area will also have
taken during the field visit.
 Field Observation
This method has been conducted through trips and observation by observing the events on the
field located in our study area. It will be help us to know information related to the activities that
were carried out there and the size in which the coastal wetlands change and looking some
strategies that were taken for managing it.
 Questionnaire Survey
This technique was more important for allowing a mass of information to be collected quickly
and homogeneity; it will be used to assess the management of Muhazi coastal wetlands and the
strategies taken for conservation. We set the number of questions related to that information then
we distributed among the households living around and others have properties there by using
face to face completion approach for collecting information.
 Google Earth
This method helped us to get great important information on Muhazi coastal wetlands change by
comparing land cover images of 2000 and 2015 of from Google Earth. it helped us to produce
images show the situation change of Muhazi coastal wetlands.
3.2.2.2. Secondary data

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Relevant secondary spatial and attribute data was collected, spatial data (coastal wetlands shape
files) include wetlands and topographic maps. Both personal communication and literature
review was applied in data collection. From Google earth, we obtain the image of land cover and
land use of Rwanda for the year 2000.
Literature review was made on different published books, reports, papers from internet and
libraries (CST library and CGIS library) but also maps, aerial photographs and satellites images
were used to obtain additional information. This was intended to deeply understand the impacts
of managing coastal wetlands to the environment.
3.2.2.3. Land covers map production
Land sat-TM satellite image of 2000 and Land-sat image of 2015 were already geo-referenced to
geographic coordinate of the study area (projection: UTM zone 35, Spheroid WGS 84 and
Datum WGS 84).
A boundary map will have digitized from the topographic map. The segment boundary map will
have polygonized to be used to produce the image subsets of the study area.
Supervised classification based on the maximum likelihood classifier algorithm and expert
knowledge of the study area will used in the classification of satellites images in ERDAS
imagine 9.2. Each image will have classified into 4 main classes: agriculture, managed forest-
land, natural land cover, and developed land cover (W.Kieffer, 1994).
3.2.2.4. Change detection map production and accuracy assessment
In order to avoid error in change detection map, the Land sat image of 2000 was re-sampled to
Land sat image of 2015-pixel size of 15m×15m pixel using the nearest neighbour method in
ERDAS imagine 9.2 Software. The nearest neighbour method uses the value of the closest pixels
for the output pixel value. However nearest neighbour re-sampling could lead to alternation of
spatial information, since some original pixels may be omitted from the output image or appear
twice.
The post classification comparison of independently classified land cover map of 2000 and 2015
was applied and cross tabulation analysis was carried out to analyse the spatial distribution of
different land cover classes and cover changes. Post-classification comparison method proved to
be the most effective technique because data from two dates are separately classified, thereby
minimizing the problem of normalizing for atmospheric and sensor differences two dates
(W.Kieffer, 1994).
Two methods were used for accuracy assessment of land cover change map. The first method
was done by multiplying the accuracies of two land cover maps. The change detection accuracy
was also evaluated by using different random samples points classified as no change or changed
between 2000 and 2015. This method is better than multiplying classification accuracies.

35
Figure 3: shows the satellites images classification procedures
4. Results and findings
This chapter presents the findings from the study according to the statistics tables that were
generated by ERDAS Imagine about Muhazi coastal wetland cover classification and coastal
change and the information that we have conducted for questionnaire survey, field observation
and interview. We assess the cause of the coastal wetlands evolution and the impacts of human
activities on the coastal wetland management. The findings are represented in tables or in charts
indicating the degrees of change and percentages respective. The discussion, analysis and
Image of 2000
Supervised classification
Land cover map 2000
Image 0f 2015
Supervised classification
Land cover map 2015
Cross matrix
Output table
Quantify change
Land covers change 2000- 2015

36
interpretation were based on the statistical tables and information that were obtained from the
questionnaire which were in relation to the research questions of our study.
4.1. Area change in the coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake
In this study, the land is firstly divided into wetlands; wetlands are then classified into 8 types:
water, open shrub-land, sparse vegetation, wetlands, closed shrub-land, sparse forest, moderate
forest, perennial cropland. No-coastal wetlands are classified into: urban settlement and
croplands. The results of the above classification are presented by 2 remote sensing Images.
Based on accuracy assessment the map of classification with higher accuracy was used to
contrast the changes of wetlands area.
4.1.1. Land covers map production

37
Figure 4: Muhazi coastal wetlands cover classification in 2000
Figure 5: Muhazi coastal wetlands cover classification in 2015
4.1.2. Change detection map production and accuracy assessment
Figure 6: Muhazi coastal wetland change detection map between 2000-2015
Source: area obtained after Landsat of 2000 and 2015 images classification.

38
Table 3: Area change (in Ha) and percentage change (%) of different coastal wetlands Types
bordering Muhazi Lake in 2000 and 2015.
2000 2015
Area Change in
Percentage %
Area Change in
Percentage %
Water 42.4602544 n/a 86.4530444 103.6
Annual
cropland
79.5115.591 n/a 80.7736.474 1.58
Grassland 9.9164076 n/a 20.9146051 110.9
Sparse forest 26.3235547 n/a 5.7695462 -78.08
Moderate forest 11.8095400 n/a 3.1552206 -73.28
Urban
settlement
13.7026723 n/a 34.1665316 149.34
Open shrub-
land
45.3450275 n/a 7.7528278
-82.9
Closed shrub-
land
0 n/a 9.3755126 -
Wetland 1.8029832 n/a 10.0967059 460
Perennial
cropland
0 n/a 9.9164076 -
Figure 7: Lake Muhazi coastal wetlands cover comparison between 2000-2015

39
The figures and table illustrate changes over a long-time scale, as well as the specific history of
Muhazi coastal wetland. In general, there has been a decline of sparse forest, moderate forest and
open shrub-land and an increase of water, wetlands, grasslands, urban settlement, annual
croplands, closed shrub-lands and perennial croplands. However, this change is most noticeable
in the period from 2000 to 2015, which includes the events of land use changes associated with
the development and the effects of climate change. While the area of sparse forest has declined
by 78% over the 15-year period of this analysis, the area of moderate forest also has declined,
particularly between 2000-2015. The area of settlements has increased more than two times
between 2000-2015. Clearly, since 2015 the change in land cover has continued. The area of
cropland, both annual and perennial, has grown predominantly at the expense of sparse forest
0
20
40
60
80
100
Year 2000 Year 2015
AREAINHA Lake muhazi Coastal wetland cover in 2000 and
2015
water Annual cropland Glassland sparse forest
Moderate forest Urban settlement open shrub-land Closed shrub-land
Wetland Perennial cropland

40
Figure 8: Lake Muhazi coastal wetland cover change in Ha between 2000-2015
Figure 9: Change in Muhazi coastal wetland Cover from 2000 to 2015 (in hectares)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
AreainHa
Change in Muhazi coastal wetland Cover 2010 to
2015 (in hectares)
Year 2000 Year 2015
-60 -40 -20 0 20 40 60
water
Glassland
Moderate forest
open shrub-land
Wetland
Hectares
Muhazi coastal wetland cover change in Hectares
2000-2015

41
Figure 10: Percentage change of Muhazi coastal wetland between 2000-2015
 Focus on water: As shown above, the water cover area has been increased more than 2
times due to climate change and increase in wetland area and government policy for the
coastal wetlands conservation by setting the law which limit the people to withdraw
water from the lake for domestic uses.
 For wetlands: The wetland area has been increased more than 460% this means that in
2000 there were the weak government policy for the protection of wetland and
identifying wetland but after this year the Rwandan government set the law relating to the
wetland conservation that prohibit people for cultivating in the coastal wetland by
applying buffer zone.
 Annual cropland: The small change in increase in annual cropland have been taken
place in the Muhazi coastal wetland with 1.5%, those change can be caused by increasing
of people demanding crop products which lead to the increase of the cultivation area.
 Grasslands: To compare the area that were covered by glass-land shows that the area of
glass-lands in 2000 can be doubled in 2015 this can be caused by the government law for
the protection of the lake shore to minimize the effect the water pollution in the lake.
 Closed shrub-land: as shown above, in 2000 there were no closed shrub-land but in
2015 the closed shrub-land cover around 9.3 Ha. This means that in 2000 there were no
land registration, there were some part of that land were in the hand of people and then
they used for farming then after the introduction of land registration in Rwanda those part
of land has been reclaimed by the government of Rwanda due to the law of the ownership
all kind of wetlands in government hands. Those reclaimed land become unused this lead
to the closed shrub-land.
 Urban settlement: In 2000 the level urban settlement in Muhazi coastal wetland was so
low compared to the area that covered by settlement in 2015, as shown above the
-1000
0
1000
1
%changeofcoastalcover
Year
Percentage change of Muhazi coastal wetland
cover between 2000-2015
water Annual cropland Glassland
sparse forest Moderate forest Urban settlement
open shrub-land Closed shrub-land Wetland
Perennial cropland

42
percentage change was 149.3%, the cause of those change is high population growth here
every day people need the place to be settle this cause the reduction in other part of land.
 Sparse forests and Moderate forest: The area that were covered by the sparse forest
were reduced over 78% and for moderate forest was 73% between 2000 and 2015, the
cause of that reduction was the high population growth, when the people become high
they want the land for settlement and the fuel wood for cooking this lead to cut down of
trees so the area that were covered by moderate and sparse forest to be cleared for
settlement.
 Open shrub-land: The area that were covered by shrub-land in 2000 were being reduced
on the high percentage of 82.9% in 2015, this shows that the area of open shrub-land was
decreased due to urban settlement, annual cropland and perennial cropland.
 Perennial cropland: in 2000 there were not the area that covered with perennial
cropland but in 2015 the perennial cropland has been increased from 0 to 9.9 Ha. This
shows that the increase was caused by encouragement of plantation cropland rather than
annual cropland this cause some change in coastal wetland cover between 2000-2015.
4.2. The causes of Muhazi coastal wetlands change.
Figure 11: Figure that shows the percentages of factors cause Muhazi coastal wetlands change
Source: Field survey (June,2018)
According to this figure above, the 40% of the respondents have shown that the change in coastal
wetlands was caused by human activities carried out in the coastal wetlands such as agricultural
activities, resources extraction... Around 26.6% of the respondents have shown the change was
caused by natural factors such as flooding, erosion, drought etc. are small percentage of all and

43
the respondents also have shown that the Muhazi coastal wetlands changed according to both
naturally and anthropogenic activities which takes 33.3%.
4.3. Coastal wetlands management in Rwanda and near Muhazi lake in particular
The authority in charge of Land, settlement and infrastructure in Rutunga Sector said that, Lake
Muhazi is being threatened due to overland use in Muhazi watershed. Within heavy agriculture
in the hills around, and deforestation of the small artificial forest and the and poor
implementation of environmental policy, as it states in Official Gazette;
No pastoral activities that require agricultural activities in swamps that shall be carried out
without respecting a distance of fifty meters away from the lake shore. Pasture shall be built in a
distance of two hundred meters away from the lake shore(GOR, 2005). Overexploitation of the
land and no planned land use, searching of Land to cultivate, to settle and postural land, was
reason to problem in Muhazi watershed, accompany by the heavy erosion on the hills, the soil
eroded transports by the rainwater into Muhazi lake, where the sediments accumulate and results
into the reduction of water quality.
A 50 meters‟ exclusion zone was thus demarcated to protect the lake from any constructions and
to prevent the destruction of the vegetation (deforestation). By the adoption of the efficient
measures, the environmental law of Rwanda determines the buffer zone to respect and describes
the activities to be done in this area for more management of water resources.
4.4. The anthropogenic activities that are carried out in Muhazi coastal wetlands
around Rutunga sector.
Figure 12: The figure shows the human activities carried out in Muhazi coastal wetlands
Source: Field survey (June,2018)

44
 Agriculture
Figure 13: photo showing agricultural activities around Muhazi Lake.
Source: field survey (Photo taken by author June 6, 2018)
Agriculture in the study area are more than 26% of the population means traditional subsistence
agriculture and Modern agriculture production methods are hardly practiced at all. The sincerity
around Lake Muhazi can be found only where developments and various practices are
impossible on the rare strips of lands along the shores or the aquatic animals. Otherwise the
shores and hinterland are used for agriculture, stock farming by basically rural populations.
Areas most vulnerable to erosion at the higher levels of the relief have cleared and then
reforested using different trees species.
 Commercial activities

45
Figure 14: photo showing commercial activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands
In Muhazi coastal wetlands the commercial activities take 3.3% according to the respondents,
generally the commercial activities were taken place especially in the KINGFISHER HOTEL
and RWESERO BEACH MUHAZI BAR & RESTAURANT where the people are moving from
Kigali to Muhazi for enjoying. Others commercial activities is carried out along the coast for
example the market of fishing activities where the seller of fish comes to carry the fish in the
Muhazi coastal wetlands to sell it‟s in the other part of the country especially in Kigali.
 Residential and infrastructure development
Figure 15: photo showing settlement and developed infrastructure in Muhazi coastal wetlands

46
The residential and infrastructure development count 3.3% of all activities in the coastal
wetlands. It occupied a small range because of the government law that prohibit people to settle
in the coastal wetlands in the 50 meters from the lake shore the building areas are very small in
number. The building located in the coastal wetlands are reserved for Hotel, Health centre and
schools.
 Road construction
Figure 16: photo showing road construction in Muhazi coastal wetlands
The road construction along Muhazi coastal wetlands bordering Rutunga sector occupy 3.3 % of
the activities that carried in the coastal lands. The road is created for the purpose of joining the
Muhazi coast to other part of Rutunga sector and to facilitate the tourists to reach to Muhazi
coast for research and enjoying. The roads is constructed under of investors who have the interest
activities in the Muhazi coastal wetlands.
 Resources extraction

47
Figure 17: figure showing sand mining in Muhazi coastal wetlands
Source: Source: field survey (Photo taken by author June 6, 2018)
The resources extraction in Muhazi coastal wetlands bordering Rutunga sector takes 10% of all
activities carried out along the coast. The sand mining is at the top; it is carried out along the
coast in Umurindi river which follow in Muhazi lake. The above picture shows the sand mining
in the coast. Other resources extraction that were carried out in the Muhazi coastal wetlands clay
mining for handcraft activities.
 Grazing

48
Figure 18: Photo that shows the grazing activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands
The grazing activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands bordering Rutunga sector account 6.67% of the
activities that were carried out there according to the respondents. Some farmers have no
constructed dams from where cows can get water to drink, they take them to Lake Muhazi in
order to get water for their animals. This has been mostly found in Kibenga cell.
 Recreational activities
Figure 19: Photo showing recreational activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands
The recreational activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands takes 10% of the activities that were
carried in. it takes place near the Lake Muhazi in King Fisher hotel where there is a swimming
pool and a field of beach volley along the coast. The people come from other parts of the country
to Muhazi for enjoying such as playing beach volley and swimming along the coast. The scenic
beauty of Muhazi coast attracts more tourist to visit there.
 Water transport

49
Figure 20: Photo showing Transport activities in Muhazi coastal wetlands
The water transport took 13.3% in the Rutunga coastal wetland bordering Muhazi lake. It
involves the movement of people with their good from one coast to the other. Both traditional
and modern small boat are used, so the tariff for traditional is low compared to the modern boat.
For tradition is 300 Rwf for going and return back to while 1000 Rwf for Modern boat for going
and return back. The modern boat only is for King Fisher Hotel which is used to carry their
customer to the hotel from the other Coast. But also there were two traditional boats that were
used to carry the local people from one shore to another.
 Fishing
Fishing in Rutunga coastal wetlands are sources food for the people who live along the coast and
to the people of other parts of the country. The fishing activities can be carried out in
cooperatives to minimize the problems of over-fishing into the lake but there are some people
who try to do the fishing activities in illegal way.
4.5. Impacts of anthropogenic activities on Muhazi coastal wetland
As shown above the anthropogenic activities that are carried out in the Muhazi coastal wetlands
are the source of income to many people. So if these activities become more can cause the
destruction of the coastal wetlands in terms of flooding, soil erosion, water pollution, loss of
wildlife.
 Flooding

50
According to the interview on the local authorities in Rutunga sector especially in Kibenga cell
they have been shown to us the major impact of the anthropogenic activities that were carried out
in the coastal wetland is flooding. Flooding is caused by the poor farming methods in the coastal
wetlands, this occur in the rainy season.
 Soil erosion
The poor farming methods in the hills that surround near Muhazi coastal wetlands is another
human activity that hinder the soil erosion along the coast as shown in the interview that were
conducted on the local authorities in Rutunga sector. The erosion occurs in the rainy season
when the removal of the top soil is being moving into the lake, also the erosion is caused by
deforestation in the coastal wetlands this increase the velocity of erosion in the coastal wetlands.
 Water pollution
Water pollution is another issues that the local authorities shown which face in the coastal
wetlands. The water pollution is caused either by water transport, fishing and sand mining which
are carried out in the coastal wetlands. The introduction of poison as a method of fishing in the
coastal wetlands is source of water pollution. The sand mining is another cause of water
pollution; the sand mining cannot be directly carried out in Muhazi lake but is carried in the
small river along the coastal wetlands.
 Loss of aquatic animals and wildlife habitat
A major impact of anthropogenic activities along the coastal wetlands is a loss of aquatic animals
and wildlife habitat. The major causes of aquatic animals are over-fishing when the fishing
activities have not respect the law such as introduction of traditional fishing methods this may
cause the reduction of fish species in coastal wetlands. The poaching activities in the coastal
wetlands is also another cause of wildlife loss. The removal of grasses in the purpose of farming
activities is source of loss of wildlife habitat.
4.6. Role of Muhazi coastal wetlands conservation

51
Figure 21: pie chart that show the role of coastal wetlands conservation
The role of coastal wetlands conservation on the people of Rutunga sector especially the people
which lives along the Muhazi coast are so many, according to the questionnaire surveying only
3.3% of the responds have shown the coastal wetlands conservation have not a value but all
96.7% look that coastal wetlands conservation have values on them and to the environment.
33.3% of the respondents have shown the value of wetlands conservation provide a source of fish
which is a source of food and income to their family. 26.6% of the respondents have shown that
when the coastal wetlands are well conserved provide a source of fresh water for domestic uses
and for their rearing animals during the dry season. 10 % of the respondents have shown that the
value of coastal wetlands conservation provides a barrier to flooding. Also 10% of the
respondents shown when the coastal wetlands are well conserved they will be an increase of
wildlife habitat. Other value that 16.7% of the respondents have shown on coastal wetlands
conservation is the reduction of water pollution and improvement of water quality.
4.7. Strategies taken for Muhazi coastal wetlands and problems that face coastal
wetlands conservation.
As we seen above the coastal wetlands are being destroyed both human activities and naturally
but they keep more values to the people and to environment, the conservation is needed to store
those values. In the coastal wetlands management there are some limitation to reach the goals of
different strategies that were established for coastal wetlands conservation.

52
4.7.1. Strategies for Muhazi coastal wetlands conservation
Figure 22: pie chart that shows the strategies that were taken for Muhazi coastal wetlands
conservation
As shown in the graph above some strategies for Muhazi coastal wetlands conservation are being
established such as maintaining buffer strip, keep the pet control, avoid storm water run-off, and
terracing on the hill around the lake.
 Maintain buffer strip
According to 53.3% of the respondents shown buffer strip have been maintained for the Muhazi
coastal wetlands conservation. A buffer zone is a strip of natural vegetation along the stream to
ensure its protection. This exclusion zone comprises the trees, shrubs, soil vegetation and even
the rocks. Furthermore, the buffer zone is generally a demarcation between a strongly
eutrophised environment and a natural one so as to reduce or eliminate the negative effects of a
direct contact, whether it is in form of pollution, nuisance or biological, biotic or abiotic
perturbations.
In this research, I don‟t care about 50meters away from lake banks because my case study was
the coastal wetlands around Muhazi lake. I would like to know if the buffer zones are respected
and if people around Lake Muhazi know and aware the buffer zone that has to be respected as
one of opportunity for better management of Lake Muhazi. This area is in some way are not
protected because many agricultural activities that are found in the zone of 50m but there are no
enough erosion control methods which contribute to the threatening of Lake Muhazi coastal
wetlands.
 Keep pet control

Coastal wetlands management in Rwanda, case study Coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake.

Coastal wetlands management in Rwanda, case study Coastal wetlands bordering Muhazi Lake.

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