Multi-functional Environmental and Social-economic Benefits of Fruit Trees on Vulnerable Urban Steep Slopes and Informal Settlements: A case of Biryogo Primary School Kigali, Rwanda

Masterarbeit, Fachbereich Umwelt und Naturwissenschaften, 74 Seiten, engl.

Summary:

The purpose of this study is to develop strategies that could guide the implementation and management of fruit trees on vulnerable urban steep slopes and informal settlements. Policy documents, articles, observation, and interview were the major data collection sources. The study was conducted with a structured interview guide administered to fifteen experts namely, heads of farm groups, government agencies, departments, local government and NGOs. The results were analyzed using thematic analysis to establish the different fruit trees species suitable for urban farms and school gardens, benefits, policy and implementing challenges of fruit trees. Additionally, SWOT analysis was used to understand the strength, weaknesses, opportunity and threat for the implementation of fruit tree-based learning garden at Biryogo primary school. This study revealed that although most of the local people are aware of the social-economic benefits of fruit trees, the awareness on environmental benefits was very low. Moreover, the major fruit trees species that can thrive in Rwandan urban farms and school gardens are mango, avocado and oranges. Whereas few respondents mentioned that fruit trees can stabilize vulnerable steep slopes, all respondents agreed on the need to promote fruit tree planting for landscape management. The implementation of fruit trees is challenged due to lack of interest, information and inadequate stakeholders’ participation. Therefore, this study recommended solution to address and promote fruit tree growing and school learning gardens at the national and local level - Biryogo primary school. The study will provide guidelines for a successful implementation and sustainability of a school gardening program to government, private and NGOs.