THE IMPLICATION OF WETLAND DEGRADATION ON THE ENVIRONMENT IN RUKUNGIRI DISTRICT. A CASE STUDY OF NYARUZINGA VILLAGE.

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study is to understand the phenomenon of wetland

degradation on the environment in Rukungiri District Nyaruzinga Parish with

some references made to neighbouring parishes.

The study was guided by four objectives that is; to find out the causes of wetland

degradation, identify the consequences of wetland degradation on the

environment, to find out what has been done to minimize the consequences and

to recommend and suggest possible solutions on how to control wetland

degradation in Nyaruzinga Parish in Rukungiri District.

The methods used to collect data were recording, questionnaires, photographs,

observation guides and this helped the researcher to get the data from the

population and analyzed it.

The results revealed by people, the researcher found out that human activities

such as agriculture, brick making, settlement or construction, poverty, population

increase, sand mining and firewood collection are the main causes of wetland

degradation in Nyaruzinga parish- Rukungiri District.

The following conclusion were made from the study; wetlands have been

reclaimed at a high rate so as to meet the needs and aspirations of people. But

this has led to loss and destruction of the biodiversity (plant and animal species),

reduction in water table and loss of soil nutrients. It is apparent that wetland

degradation in Nyaruzinga parish will continue to grow unless approaches are

developed to assure that wetlands are protected, preserved, conserved and

sustained for the future generations to enjoy the available natural resources.

The research therefore recommends the following as solutions to the problem;

Afforestation, Avoiding constructing in swampy areas, sensitization about the

dangers of wetland degradation, stopping people from carrying agriculture in

wetlands and this should not be only the work of government but to any person

and other organizations, focused study, comparative study and research.