Rwanda is a landlocked country of 26,338 square kilometers undergoing a rapid urbanization and is the second most densely populated country in Africa. Severe weather events, particularly floods and drought have historically imposed heavy costs in Rwanda. Additionally, air pollution from wood burning, vehicle exhaust and dusty roads has become a concern in Rwanda (WHO, 2016). Despite the associated health risks, air quality (AQ) programs, particularly in Rwanda have stalled or been discontinued in recent years. The main problems are the severe lack of knowledge on air pollution sciences and inadequate funding to install AQ monitoring stations. Previous study indicated that deforestation, and especially the destruction of rainforests is a hugely significant contributor to climate change and air pollution.
The role of forest management in mitigating climate change and air pollution is a central concern for the Rwandan population. The World Health Organization (WHO) subsequently estimated the number of annual deaths from indoor air pollution in Rwanda to be about 12,500 (WHO, 2016). The single research study into household air pollution, conducted in Northern Province of Rwanda, revealed that solid fuel combustion posed a serious health threat and is estimated to be the major risk factor for the country-wide burden of disease. Concerns about climate change and ambient air pollution in developed countries have been fueled by scientific publications, leading to government control measures. However, the negative impacts of climate change and air pollution in African countries suchas Rwanda are creating significant human health problems but receive relatively little attention from a public health viewpoint.
The Rwandan Government has recently publish new law governing the preservation of air quality and
greenhouse gases mitigation. Controlling these emissions alone will not be sufficient for effective
improvement of AQ and climate change; there is a need for community perception of cause and effect
of climate change and air pollution before determining people’s response and acceptance of related
policies. Therefore, understanding people’ perception is critical in informing the design of appropriate
intervention measures.
Sustainable management of forests with the participation and support of local communities can have a central role in climate change and air pollution mitigation. However, very little is known with respect to the levels and basis of public support for potential forest management strategies to mitigate climate change and air pollution.
To learn more about the IDEAS For Us branch in Rwanda, check out our website page dedicated to shocasing the amazing work done by activists associated with the branch and learn how you can support the initiatives the Rwanda team is working on this year!
Visit: www.IDEASforUs.org/rwanda to learn more!
