The Role Of Government Policies Towards Soils, Wetlands And Forests Conservation A Case Study Of Bunyarugulu In Ruburizi District

ABSTRACT

The study was conducted in the two constituencies, Katerera and Bunyaruguru that make up Rubirizi district. An investigation was conducted to assess the role of government policy relating to soils, wetlands and forest conservation. The study executed six specific objectives but the general objective was to find out how the government has involved the local people at policy and decision making levels nsed in conservation of soils, wetlands, forests and to examine the importance of soils, wetlands, forests conservation to the local communities of Rubirizi. Both descriptive and exploratory research designs were employed to collect data. Systematic Random sampling techniques was applied in information collection. A sample size of 60 respondents was used. The tools used involved administration of written questionnaires, interviews, observation, photography and documentary review. They were later processed and analyzed using excel files and Microsoft excel statistic program. The respondents showed positive attitude in relation to the conservation of natural resources and understood their importance. There was link between people and the environment they live in. In spite of the positive attitudes by the local communities, they still lack essential information about the importance of Wetlands conservation and environmental management at a large. Therefore, this calls for need for environment education programs and should consider the community member values as a means of enhancing sustainable conservation projects. The high percentage on direct and indirect natural resource uses showed need for local communities to develop positive attitudes towards natural resources especially through community participation since these derive lots of benefits