Publications
Assessing Forest Landscape Dynamics and Its Driving Factors in Rwanda, a Case of Nyungwe National Park (1990-2024)
Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, has experienced dynamic forest landscape changes from 1990 to 2024, with net forest expansion despite localized declines. Initial growth (7.0%) between 1990 and 2000 was attributed to natural regeneration post-conflict, while grassland expanded significantly (86.7%) during post-conflict resettlement (2000–2010). A slight net forest increase (1.4%) occurred from 2010 to 2024, though urban expansion and agricultural activity posed threats. The study used multi-temporal Landsat data and GIS tools to classify land-use/land-cover (LULC) types—forestland, agriculture, grassland, wetland, aquatic bodies, and built-up areas—and analyzed drivers such as economic development, population shifts, sociopolitical instability, and climate change. Vegetation health improved overall (NDVI increase from 0.6 to 0.7), but localized declines were linked to fire, road construction, and agriculture. The research underscores the need for sustainable land-use strategies, stricter regulations, ecotourism development, and community engagement to preserve NNP's biological integrity.
Conceptualization of Local Community in the Conservation of the Vulnerable Owl-faced Monkey, Cercopithecus hamlyni: Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
A vulnerable primate, the owl-faced monkey (Cercopithecus hamlyni), faces escalating threats to its bamboo habitat in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. Despite park-driven incentive programs and community bamboo plantations failing to curb illegal collection, a proposed bamboo value chain offers a practical solution by supporting local cooperatives and optimizing resource dependency. The study underscores the urgent need for collective conservation efforts, highlighting the species' unique ecological role and the risks of local extinction without timely intervention. It also calls for further research into its population ecology and community-driven conservation strategies to ensure long-term survival.
Diversity and biogeographic patterns of non-volant small mammals in Afrotropical montane rainforests in Rwanda
A comprehensive study of non-volant small mammals in Nyungwe National Park (NNP), Rwanda, reveals 25 species, including a new record for the region and country: Lophuromys cinereus. The research, employing standardized live-trapping and DNA analysis—a first for this area—confirms most previously documented species while providing insights into their diversity and distribution across Afromontane rainforests. Seasonality showed minimal impact on community composition, but all species found in the smaller Cyamudongo forest fragment were also present in NNP's main block. The study underscores gaps in understanding biogeographic and ecological factors influencing these mammals and advocates for their inclusion in ecosystem dynamics monitoring and park management plans to better demonstrate Afromontane biodiversity.
Forty years of herpetological research in the Nyungwe and Cyamudongo forests of Rwanda: 1984 -2024
A comprehensive herpetological study of Nyungwe National Park, Rwandareveals 34 amphibian and 50 reptile species, with 59% of amphibians and 34% of reptiles being Albertine Rift endemics. Three amphibian species are locally endemic to the park, highlighting its biodiversity significance. The research spans four decades (1984–2024), documenting ongoing discoveries in this montane rainforest refugium. Species were categorized by altitudinal zones and IUCN Red List status, while traditional ecological knowledge and vernacular names were also explored. This study underscores Nyungwe’s role as a critical biodiversity hotspot with unresolved taxonomic gaps.
Integrated Valuation of Rwanda's Forest and Wetland Ecosystems for National Planning and Green GDP
Rwanda's forest and wetland ecosystems, particularly Nyungwe National Park, are vital national wealth assets with a total economic value (TEV) dominated by regulating services such as water regulation, carbon storage, and soil erosion control. Nyungwe alone generates annual benefits of approximately 6,484.8 billion RWF from these services, with significant contributions to water regulation (418.2 billion RWF), carbon storage (6,066.3 billion RWF), and soil erosion control (0.3 billion RWF). The study introduces the Rwanda Integrated Valuation Framework (RIVF), combining biophysical modeling and household surveys to estimate protection dividends (PD) and net costs of degradation (NCD), providing actionable metrics for national planning and Green GDP. This approach demonstrates that conserving these ecosystems is not just an environmental priority but a strategic macroeconomic imperative, aligning with Rwanda's Vision 2050.
Lightning‐caused disturbance frequency and severity varies with topography in an Afromontane forest
Lightning-caused disturbances in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, exhibit significant variation in frequency and severity based on topography. Ridges experience six times more lightning strikes (19) compared to valleys (2), yet valley disturbances cause greater tree-level damage and a higher mortality rate among affected trees, though the latter was not statistically significant due to limited sample size. This pattern contrasts with findings from tropical American forests, where lightning typically results in higher tree mortality rates. The study also suggests taxonomic differences in lightning tolerance, particularly for ridge-dominant Syzygium spp., which showed less damage compared to the community average. These insights imply that lightning disturbance severity may decline with increased frequency and highlight potential species-specific adaptations to lightning stress.
Population Characterisation and an Evidence-based Seed-source Strategy for Wild Coffea eugenioides in Nyungwe and Cyamudongo Forests, Rwanda
Wild Coffea eugenioides, a threatened crop wild relative, exhibits low and highly variable reproductive output in Nyungwe National Park and the isolated Cyamudongo fragment, Rwanda. The study found that median fruit production per tree is only 29 cherries, with 31% of trees producing 15 or fewer, and that this variability is weakly linked to tree size (stem diameter). Trees in the fragmented Cyamudongo forest produced significantly fewer cherries than those in Nyungwe, with all sub-optimal seed-quality ratings observed in the fragment. These findings challenge the reliability of a seed-based Breeding Seed Orchard (BSO) strategy for conservation and restoration efforts. Instead, the research advocates for a Clonal Seed Orchard (CSO), established through grafting wild scions onto locally adapted Coffea arabica rootstock, to ensure genetic fidelity, expedite flowering, and secure germplasm ex situ, aligning with Rwanda's climate and restoration goals.
Rhipidoglossum delepierreanum Eb. Fisch., Killmann, J. - P. Lebel and Delep.
A new country record for the orchid species Rhipidoglossum delepierreanum has been documented, expanding its known distribution to Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Burundi, in addition to Rwanda. The species thrives in montane forests within the Western Rift System at elevations between 1600–2000 meters above sea level. This discovery was made through the examination of herbarium specimens, including previously misidentified or unidentified samples from Uganda, DRC, and Burundi. The study highlights the importance of revisiting historical collections to uncover new records and correct taxonomic misidentifications, contributing to a more accurate understanding of this species' range and ecology.
Small mammal community response to buffer zone, edge, and interior habitat in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
A dominant small mammal species, accounting for nearly 27% of records, serves as a potential proxy for assessing the ecological health and function of habitats within Nyungwe National Park. The study, conducted across interior, edge, and buffer zone habitats (including pine or tea plantations) over two seasons, revealed that modified edge habitats can support diverse small mammal communities. Researchers surveyed three sites for 20 days each month over six months, identifying four key species that thrive in these varied environments. This finding underscores the resilience of certain species to habitat modification and their potential role as indicators for biodiversity conservation efforts.
Spatio-Temporal Assessment of Vegetation Cover Changes in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda (2013–2022): Implications for Conservation Management
A comprehensive spatio-temporal assessment of Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, reveals that 98% of its vegetation experienced statistically significant changes between 2013 and 2022. Despite moderate rainfall variability, the park's montane forest demonstrated remarkable resilience, with no significant correlation between climate factors and vegetation health. The study identified localized degradation hotspots near northern and southeastern boundaries, driven primarily by anthropogenic pressures rather than climatic influences. These findings underscore the need for targeted conservation strategies, including enhanced boundary protection, active restoration of degraded areas, and strengthened buffer zone policies to mitigate edge effects.
An annotated checklist of terrestrial small mammals of Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda based on recent reassessments (2009–2023)
A comprehensive annotated checklist of terrestrial small mammals in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, identifies 58 species, including 40 rodents and 16 shrews, with six species found outside the natural forest. Recent field reassessments (2009–2023) and advanced taxonomic methods revealed around 20 previously unrecorded species, updating existing checklists. The study used voucher specimens and Cytb sequencing to confirm cryptic species, providing critical data for biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts in the park.
An ichthyological borderland: The fishfauna of Nyungwe National Park and surroundings (Rwanda, East Africa)
A recent expedition to Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, revealed the presence of 13 fish species within the park and its buffer zones, challenging previous assumptions that cold river temperatures precluded fish diversity. The study, conducted in 2022, found limited fish diversity within the park proper—primarily two putative species of Amphilius cf. kivuensis—but higher diversity in lower-altitude rivers of the buffer zone, including a clariid species and two Enteromius species. Near the mouth of the Kamiranzovu River, 11 species were recorded, four of which were non-native, including guppy (Poecilia reticulata), Astatotilapia burtoni, blue-spotted tilapia (Oreochromis leucosticus), and Egyptian mouth-brooder (Pseudocrenilabrus multicolor). The research highlights Nyungwe's role as an ichthyological borderland, with distinct species distributions influenced by altitude and watershed dynamics.
Assessing the Contribution of Women's Activities to Environmental Conservation in Sectors Surrounding Nyungwe National Park, Nyamagabe District, Rwanda
Women's participation in conservation activities around Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, significantly enhances environmental outcomes. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.712, p < 0.05) was found between women's engagement in reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and water management, and improved forest cover, reduced deforestation, and biodiversity. Despite challenges like resource scarcity and cultural barriers, women play a pivotal role in community-based conservation. The study, using mixed-methods including surveys (391 women) and interviews (5 local leaders), underscores the need for greater empowerment of women through education, resources, and policy involvement to sustain environmental benefits.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Buffer Zones in Reducing Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
Buffer zones around Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, are largely ineffective in mitigating human-wildlife conflicts (HWCs), particularly against crop raiding by primates. A study found that over 71% of respondents perceived these zones as inadequate, with land-use changes like agricultural expansion and settlements undermining their protective role. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining GIS analysis, household surveys, and key informant questionnaires to assess conflict patterns and buffer zone characteristics. Findings highlight the need for multi-layered buffer strategies, incorporating non-palatable agroforestry crops and deterrent plant species, alongside improved land-use planning and community engagement to foster sustainable human-wildlife coexistence.
Assessment of the Impact of Community-Based Conservation Interventions to Biodiversity Conservation Around Protected Areas: Case of Nyungwe National Park
Community-based conservation interventions significantly enhance biodiversity protection around Nyungwe National Park (NNP), Rwanda, by fostering positive behavioral changes and reducing illegal activities. A strong correlation coefficient of 0.942 indicates that these interventions effectively shape local attitudes toward conservation. Between 2021 and 2023, illegal activities spiked due to increased efforts to monitor them, but a marked decline occurred in 2024—likely attributed to community engagement. Notably, 56.3% of snares (3,848) were uprooted by community eco-rangers during joint patrols with park rangers. The study recommends scaling up community involvement, income-generating projects, and environmental education to sustain these gains. Conducted through questionnaires and Earth Ranger data analysis, the research highlights the critical role of local communities in combating biodiversity threats.
Descriptions of seven new Pilodeudorix
Recent field surveys and genetic analysis have uncovered seven new species of the butterfly genus Pilodeudorix (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) across equatorial Africa, including three from West African upland forests and four from East and Central Africa. Notably, DNA sequencing revealed a 3.5% divergence between central/eastern and western populations of P. virgata, indicating cryptic species diversity. The study, conducted by Sáfián et al. (2025), combines morphological and genetic data to describe these new taxa, expanding our understanding of biodiversity in regions like Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, and the East Nimba Nature Reserve, Liberia.
Effect of World Heritage Sites on Sustainable Livelihood: A Case Study of Nyungwe National Park, Bushekeri Sector/Rwanda, 2023-2024
A significant majority (79%) of respondents from the Bushekeri Sector perceive Nyungwe National Park (NNP) as positively contributing to their livelihoods, with tourism and hospitality emerging as key economic drivers. The study highlights that 85% believe conservation efforts support local economic activities, while community initiatives are recognized as a best practice by 67.9%. Socio-economic improvements since NNP's World Heritage designation include increased reliance on tourism (44%) and positive perceptions of its impact on living conditions (46%). The research underscores the importance of community involvement in decision-making for sustainable development, emphasizing strong links between conservation and local livelihoods. This was achieved through a mixed-method approach involving 390 questionnaires and interviews with NNP managers, community business practitioners, and tourism professionals.
Increasing fruiting synchrony at the community level in an Afromontane tropical forest
A 24-year study in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, reveals that fruit production synchrony among tree species has increased significantly since 2015, particularly for pioneer and non-pioneer light-demanding (NPLD) species. This shift toward greater synchrony coincides with higher fruit production, suggesting a shared response to environmental cues like irradiance. While shade-tolerant species showed less variation in fruiting patterns, pioneers exhibited the highest synchrony at mid-to-high elevations. The study highlights how changes in community-level fruit production can impact frugivore resource availability and ecosystem stability, with implications for biodiversity conservation.
Modeling antithrombotic ginkgolide terpene trilactones from rwandan nyungwe cloud forest prunus africana bark sustainable harvest concession plots
Researchers have identified that the bark of Prunus africana, harvested from sustainable concession plots in Nyungwe Cloud Forest, Rwanda, contains antithrombotic ginkgolide-type terpene trilactones with significant platelet aggregation inhibition properties. The study found that middle-trunk bark (1.5–3 m) yields the highest concentration of these compounds, with an IC₅₀ of 14.3 µg/mL for ADP-stimulated human platelet-rich plasma. A predictive model incorporating harvest height, tree diameter, and plot identity explained 73.8% of the variance in ginkgolide yield, offering a framework for sustainable, chemistry-guided bark harvesting in Afromontane forests. This discovery holds potential for both traditional medicine and pharmaceutical applications.
Presence of Servals (Leptailurus serval) in a Mature, Closed‐Canopy Tropical Moist Montane Rainforest Ecosystem Challenges Conventional Range Maps
A groundbreaking study challenges conventional wisdom about the serval's habitat preferences, revealing that these elusive cats thrive in mature, closed-canopy tropical moist montane rainforests of Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. This finding contradicts the long-held belief that servals are savanna specialists and absent from dense rainforest ecosystems (IUCN habitat class 1.9). Researchers used multi-year field observations to document serval presence in this understudied region, highlighting a significant gap in current IUCN range maps for Central and Western Africa. The study underscores the urgent need for increased research efforts in these areas to better understand species distribution and ecology, ensuring more accurate conservation strategies.
An updated checklist of vascular plants (lycophytes, ferns, gymnosperms, angiosperms) from Nyungwe National Park (incl. Cyamudongo Forest), Rwanda
A comprehensive checklist of vascular plants from Nyungwe National Park, including the Cyamudongo Forest, identifies 145 fern and lycophyte species and 1311 flowering plant species. Notably, 24 endemic ferns (16.5% of the total) and 234 endemic or near-endemic flowering plants (17.7%) were recorded, with 33 species being local endemics found only in Rwanda. The study also highlights 34 invasive exotic species threatening natural vegetation. Additionally, new combinations and names for several species are proposed, including Impatiens kagamei and Dinophora montana, while confirming the synonymy of Ranunculus rugegensis and R. bequaertii. The research provides a critical update to Rwanda's botanical inventory, emphasizing the unique biodiversity of Nyungwe National Park, particularly in Cyamudongo Forest.
Estimating the Value and Benefits of Revenue Sharing Projects and Their Contribution to Community Development Around Nyungwe National Park
Revenue sharing projects around Nyungwe National Park (NNP) have significantly contributed to community development, with investments totaling RwF 649.1 million since 2005 yielding a net profit of RwF 66.8 million after one year and an estimated RwF 14.3 billion impact value over 20 years. These projects, funded by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), have improved local livelihoods through infrastructure development, though some failures were attributed to inadequate monitoring. The study highlights the potential of combining revenue sharing with ecosystem service values to enhance biodiversity conservation and human well-being, recommending increased funding and a special guarantee fund for integrated approaches.
Exploring the landscape pattern change analysis for the transboundary Nyungwe-Kibira Forest (2000–2019): a spatially explicit assessment
Between 2000 and 2019, the transboundary Nyungwe-Kibira Forest experienced significant landscape changes, with built-up areas increasing by 62.3% (+14,133 ha) and cropland expanding by 18.07% (+6,322 ha), leading to a net forest loss of 6.92% (-14,764 ha). Built-up expansion primarily affected the northern edge in Rwanda, while cropland growth dominated the southeastern Burundi region. Projections suggest a further 0.74% decrease in forest cover by 2030 unless mitigation measures are implemented. The study utilized high-resolution Landsat data and secondary reports to analyze these dynamics, highlighting the urgent need for restoration initiatives and land-based conservation strategies to counteract ongoing degradation.
Promotion of Local People’s Environmental Awareness and Its Contribution to the Management of Protected Areas: Case Study of Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda
A study on Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda reveals that local residents, despite their proximity to the protected area, exhibit low environmental awareness and engage in illegal activities such as poaching and tree-felling. Key challenges hindering community participation include poverty, ignorance, crop-raiding, and a lack of alternative livelihoods. The research suggests that targeted information campaigns and development projects could significantly improve local awareness, reduce reliance on park resources, and foster more sustainable management practices. The study employed mixed methods, including questionnaires, focus group discussions, interviews, and field observations, to gather data from 177 households in two sectors bordering the park.
A New Miniature Species of Arthroleptis (Anura: Arthroleptidae) from Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
Researchers have identified a new miniature species of frog, Arthroleptis, endemic to Nyungwe National Park and Cyamudongo Forest in Rwanda. This tiny amphibian, measuring just 16–16.5 mm in adult males, is distinguished by unique morphological traits, including skin texture, hindlimb length, and ventral coloration. It also exhibits a distinctive advertisement call with a single note lasting approximately 17.4 ms and a dominant frequency of around 5861 Hz. Genetic analysis further supports its classification as a distinct species, with a significant uncorrected p-distance of at least 4.6% from other Arthroleptis species. The study also describes additional call types and provides insights into the natural history of this newly discovered frog.
Analysis of human-driven extinction of elephants in Nyungwe national park, Rwanda
Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, once home to elephants, saw their extinction by 1999 due to human-driven threats. A study analyzing the period from 1965 to 1999 identified poaching for ivory (75%), bushmeat (20.6%), traditional medicine (2.7%), and decoration (0.8%) as primary causes, alongside gold mining and logging. These activities, fueled by poverty and human-elephant conflicts, degraded habitats in key areas like Kamiranzovu, Gasare, and Bigugu, leading to the species' disappearance. The research underscores the urgent need for reinforced conservation efforts to protect threatened species and advocates for elephant reintroduction, contingent on habitat quality assessments, to sustain biodiversity and boost tourism.
Checklist of Ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Species from Nyungwe Tropical Rain Forest, South-Western Rwanda
A comprehensive checklist of ant species from Nyungwe National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in South-Western Rwanda, reveals remarkable biodiversity with 74 identified species, including nine genera and 43 species recorded for the first time in Rwanda. The study, conducted across seven sites using diverse sampling methods such as pitfall traps, arboreal traps, baiting, and hand searching, highlights Myrmicinae as the most diverse subfamily. Notably, 13 potential undescribed ant species were also identified, underscoring the park's ecological significance. High species richness was observed in secondary forest sites like Karamba (53 species) and Pindura (33 species), suggesting these areas may serve as critical habitats for ant diversity. The findings advocate for further intensive sampling across Rwanda to fully understand its tropical rainforest ant fauna.
Preliminary study of Dent's monkey (Cercopithecus denti) living in a forest fragment in Rwanda, highlighting dietary flexibility in guenons
Dent's monkey (Cercopithecus denti) demonstrates remarkable dietary flexibility, with its diet comprising 58% leaves and 18% fruits, challenging the conventional view of guenons as primarily frugivorous. This preliminary study, conducted over three months in a small forest fragment within Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, reveals that C. denti's folivorous tendencies may enable its persistence in fragmented habitats. The research highlights the species' adaptability, spending most of its time 10–20 meters above ground in secondary forests and open areas. This first systematic study of C. denti provides critical insights into the dietary strategies of guenons, which could inform conservation efforts for this threatened species.
A Checklist of the Mammals of Rwanda
Rwanda, despite its small size and complex history, supports a remarkably diverse mammal fauna. A comprehensive checklist identifies 205 species within four key areas: Parc National des Volcans, Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park, and the eastern shore of Lake Kivu—covering nearly all known mammals in the country. While some records may require verification or future surveys, this study provides a critical baseline for Rwanda's mammalian biodiversity, including rare species like the mountain gorilla and golden monkey, which are significant to conservation efforts, particularly in UNESCO-listed Nyungwe National Park.
Association patterns in a high-elevation chimpanzee community in Rwanda
Adult female chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, exhibit less gregarious behavior compared to males, with their social tendencies more influenced by food distribution than males. This study provides the first detailed analysis of association patterns in a high-elevation chimpanzee population, revealing that female gregariousness increases when feeding on clumped foods, whereas male gregariousness remains unaffected. Despite the limited fruit resources typical of high-altitude forests, these findings align with patterns observed in mid and low-elevation populations, suggesting that environmental factors drive similar social dynamics across elevations.
Community livelihoods and forest dependency: Tourism contribution in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
A tourism revenue-sharing program in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, aimed at reducing poverty and improving conservation outcomes, has shown limited success. Despite doubling the share from 5% to 10% of park gate fees since 2005, the study found that community well-being has not significantly improved. Researchers used questionnaires, spatial analyses, and regression models to assess illegal resource use, socio-economic status, and community perceptions in 24 sectors around the park. The findings suggest that the program should prioritize areas with greater need and re-evaluate its interventions to better achieve poverty reduction and conservation goals.
Diversity and distribution of Fruit‐feeding butterflies (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, hosts a rich diversity of fruit-feeding butterflies (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), with 56 species recorded, including 10 Albertine Rift endemics. A study revealed that 77% of these species thrive between 1700 and 2100 meters in elevation, with higher richness and abundance during the dry season. The research used stratified seasonal sampling with fruit-baited traps across an elevation gradient from 1700 to 2950 meters. This study provides critical baseline data for monitoring climate change impacts on high mountain tropical rainforests within the Albertine Rift region, contributing significantly to our understanding of butterfly diversity in underexplored Afrotropical Mountains.
Rediscovery of the critically endangered Hill's horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hilli) and other new records of bat species in Rwanda
After four decades of uncertainty, researchers have rediscovered the critically endangered Hill's horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hilli) within Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. This rediscovery comes 40 years after its last documented observation in 1981 and provides hope for the survival of a species listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN due to its extremely small geographic range. The study, conducted from 2013 to 2020, employed cave roost surveys, capture surveys, and acoustic sampling to document bat species occurrence data, contributing 278 records from 10 bat species across 71 locations in or near the park. Notably, this research also reports the first record of Lander's horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus landeri) in Nyungwe National Park and the first record of the Damara woolly bat (Kerivoula argentata) in Rwanda. The findings include the first acoustic echolocation signatures and phylogenetic information for R. hilli, offering new insights into its conservation status and ecological role.
Spatiotemporal patterns in an Afrotropical montane forest bird community
Afrotropical montane bird communities exhibit significant spatial and temporal structuring along elevational gradients, with high-elevation assemblages showing fewer species compared to lower and middle elevations. Despite the absence of geographic barriers, regional differences in species composition and richness were observed in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. The study, conducted between 2001 and 2011, found overall stability in species richness but noted season-specific trends, such as a wet-season increase in high-elevation richness, suggesting upslope shifts for low and middle elevation species. These findings underscore the need for protected areas that encompass full geographic and elevational gradients to effectively conserve Afromontane bird communities, particularly in the face of anthropogenic threats.
Why do Farmers in Nyaruguru District Adopt Organic Coffee Production Methods?
Farmers in Nyaruguru District, Rwanda, are more likely to adopt organic coffee production methods when they have higher education levels, larger land holdings, greater farming experience, and access to enhanced soil fertility practices. These factors significantly influence their decision-making process, as revealed by a logit regression analysis. The study also highlights that the demand for organic products can create new export opportunities and contribute to local food security by increasing family incomes. However, key constraints include unstable markets, high input costs, lack of extension services, and inadequate capital. Recommendations focus on improving farmer awareness through agricultural extension services and stabilizing coffee markets.
Diversity of the geographical environment of national parks in Rwanda as centers of nature based tourism
Rwanda's national parks—Volcanoes, Akagera, Nyungwe, and Gishwati-Mukura—exhibit significant geographical diversity that supports nature-based tourism as a vital economic driver. The study highlights how these parks' unique landscapes, from volcanic features to dense forests, contribute to tourism development while benefiting local communities, entrepreneurs, and the national economy. Using secondary data (literature, reports) and primary fieldwork—including interviews with park staff during a 2020 seminar—the research underscores the importance of sustainable tourism in overpopulated regions. Key findings emphasize the economic impact of nature-based tourism while recommending further exploration of community-based tourism, environmental awareness, and responsible tourism practices in Rwanda.
Effects of land‐use change on avian taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity in a tropical montane rainforest
Even low levels of land-use change significantly alter species composition and reduce bird diversity in tropical montane rainforests, according to a study conducted in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. While overall functional and phylogenetic diversity remained similar across different land-use types, the research revealed a notable contraction in trophic and locomotory trait structures in restored and cultivated areas, respectively. Soil moisture, elevation, and lower vegetation height emerged as key factors influencing these dimensions of bird community diversity, though their effects varied. The findings underscore the sensitivity of forest species to minor habitat disturbance, highlighting the importance of conserving primary vegetation and adopting wildlife-friendly agricultural practices for long-term conservation in Afromontane ecosystems.
Optimal allocation of law enforcement patrol effort to mitigate poaching activities
Optimal patrol strategies can significantly reduce poaching risk while minimizing costs, offering a more efficient approach to conservation law enforcement. A study applying decision analysis and spatial optimization algorithms to Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, found that allocating 8,558 ranger patrol events annually—covering 1-km² sites—could achieve a 50% reduction in poaching risk at a cost of US$684,640. This approach outperforms historical efforts (2006–2016), which achieved only ~30% risk reduction under similar budgets. The model accounted for imperfect detection and spatial adjacency, providing a scalable framework for other conservation challenges. Park managers identified this balance as practical given funding constraints, highlighting the potential for cost-effective poaching mitigation in protected areas.
People’s Perceptions of Community Participation in Conservation of Natural Resources in Rwanda - the Case of Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park's management has improved local community relations and well-being through tourism revenue sharing (TRS), but participation remains passive due to top-down governance. The study reveals that while TRS has funded infrastructure, income-generating activities, and conservation awareness since 2005, human-wildlife conflicts persist. Local communities perceive governance as distant and wish for more integrative, empowering participation. The research used mixed methodologies across five published papers to explore perceptions of community roles, benefits, decision-making challenges, and desired improvements in conservation efforts.
Resighting African wildcats (Felis lybica): Camera trap photographs in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
A rare glimpse into the elusive African wildcat (Felis lybica) population was captured through camera trap photographs in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. This study marks a significant contribution to the understanding of this cryptic species, providing visual evidence that sheds light on its presence and behavior within one of Africa's biodiversity hotspots. Researchers employed camera traps to document wildcat resightings, offering insights into their distribution and ecological habits in a region where such data is scarce. The findings highlight the importance of Nyungwe National Park as a critical habitat for this small carnivore, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to protect its dwindling population.
Unleashing traditional ecological knowledge for biodiversity conservation and resilience to climate change in Rwanda
A significant portion of local communities around Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda (71%), adheres to biodiversity conservation principles, with tree species being the most widespread within the park. However, bush burning remains a prevalent practice outside its boundaries (86.5%). Controlled tree cutting and awareness of biodiversity-conserving measures are protective factors against environmental degradation. The study highlights that while traditional ecological knowledge plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, its universal adoption is not guaranteed among locals. These findings underscore the potential of integrating indigenous practices with modern conservation strategies to enhance resilience against climate change.
Chimpanzee ranging responses to fruit availability in a high‐elevation environment
Chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, adapt their ranging behavior to fruit scarcity by shifting monthly home ranges rather than reducing travel effort, suggesting high-altitude zones can serve as critical refugia for densely distributed food species. This study used focal follow and phenology data to analyze how fruit availability influences daily path length and home range dynamics in a montane environment. While chimpanzees decreased daily travel during low-fruit periods, their foraging areas remained stable but shifted locationally, likely reflecting altitudinal variations in food resource distribution. The diet was often dominated by one or two species confined to specific elevation zones, with Podocarpus latifolius being a key high-altitude resource that drove chimpanzees to range at the peak of their altitudinal range for consecutive months. This challenges the perception of high elevations as harsh environments, highlighting their ecological importance when they host critical food sources.
Comparison of species richness and detection between line transects, ground camera traps, and arboreal camera traps
A combination of ground and arboreal camera traps proved to be the most effective methodology for monitoring mammalian species richness and detection probabilities, particularly in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. This approach outperformed traditional line transects and ground camera traps alone, offering higher precision in occupancy and detection estimates. The study found that while the effectiveness varied among diurnal primate species, arboreal camera traps did not show significant differences in detection based on their height in trees. These findings suggest that integrating all three methods maximizes species detection, though combining arboreal and ground cameras is optimal when only two methods can be deployed. This research highlights the potential of arboreal camera traps to enhance future species monitoring programs.
Evaluating the Relationship between National Park Management and Local Communities’ Perceptions Based on Survey, a Case of Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
A survey of residents near Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, revealed that while local communities generally support conservation and tourism efforts, they face challenges such as weak mobilization and conflict resolution. The study found positive attitudes toward participation in conservation organizations and tourism activities, particularly due to perceived employment opportunities. However, residents called for stronger government investment, stakeholder involvement, and a role in planning processes to enhance economic development. The research suggests that integrated coordination mechanisms and conservation-development projects could foster sustainable management, benefiting both the park and the broader region.
Impact of Pteridium aquilinum on vegetation in Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda
A study at Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, reveals that the fern Pteridium aquilinum acts as a significant ecological filter, altering vegetation dynamics and restricting tree growth while promoting ruderal species. Dominant in three of four identified plant communities with average coverages ranging from 4% to 31%, P. aquilinum was associated with higher proportions of disturbed forest indicators such as ruderals (76%) and chamaephytes (48%). In contrast, non-dominated areas exhibited greater diversity, richness, and a prevalence of competitive phanerophytes (52%), characteristic of primary forests. The research employed 53 plots along mountain transects, analyzing species composition, cover abundance, and ecological traits using MVSP software and the Shannon-Weiner index to quantify community structure. Findings suggest P. aquilinum's dominance is linked to forest disturbance, with Macaranga kilimandischarica emerging as a key tree species in cut-areas.
Lessons Learned from On-the-Ground Conservation in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Conservation efforts in conflict zones, such as Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, can still achieve significant progress despite extreme challenges. A 1998 survey of staff from two conservation projects—Nyungwe Forest Conservation Project (supported by WCS) and Karisoke Research Center (supported by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund)—revealed that junior staff played a crucial role in sustaining operations during armed crises, often at great personal risk. Their motivation stemmed from a sense of protecting their natural heritage, belief in the importance of their work for their country, and the expectation of future salary payments. The study also highlighted the need for conservation organizations to invest more in training and responsibilities for junior staff, a lesson that led WCS to implement structural changes. This research underscores the resilience and critical role of local staff in maintaining conservation efforts amid instability.
Spatial Modelling of Common Chimpanzees’ (Pan troglodytes schweinifurthii) Ecological Niche in the Western Part of Rwanda
A spatial modelling study identifies that approximately 35% of Rwanda's Western Province, covering areas around Nyungwe National Park (NNP) and Gishwati-Mukura National Park (GMNP), provides suitable habitat for Common Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinifurthii). The research, using Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) and Generic Algorithm for Rule-based Prediction (GARP) models, reveals that chimpanzees prefer regions characterized by high altitude, low temperature, and intense rainfall, particularly in the southern and northern parts of the study area. MaxEnt predictions proved more accurate than GARP, highlighting the critical role of precipitation and food availability in determining chimpanzee habitat suitability. The study underscores the need for targeted conservation efforts in these regions to mitigate threats from habitat loss and climate change.
Chimpanzee feeding ecology and fallback food use in the montane forest of Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
Eastern chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, exhibit distinct feeding patterns influenced by seasonal fluctuations in food availability. Unlike lower-elevation forests, where figs are a minor component of the diet, chimpanzees here rely heavily on figs, particularly Ficus lutea, and consume flowers at seasonally high rates. Terrestrial herbaceous vegetation serves as a consistent 'filler' fallback food (FBF). This study, primarily using observational data with support from fecal analyses, reveals that higher-elevation montane forests, characterized by lower productivity and resource diversity, significantly shape chimpanzee foraging behavior. These findings contrast sharply with those from lower-altitude sites, highlighting the unique ecological dynamics of montane environments.
Community Perceptions of Human-wildlife Conflicts and the Compensation Scheme Around Nyungwe National Park (Rwanda)
Local communities around Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, face significant socio-economic losses and food insecurity due to crop raiding by wild animals, yet they are dissatisfied with the existing compensation scheme. Key issues include complex eligibility requirements, lengthy and costly procedures, claim rejections, undervalued payments, and irregular delays, which discourage victims from pursuing compensation. These challenges perpetuate human-wildlife conflicts, leading communities to resort to self-defense rather than relying on monetary compensation. The study highlights the need for a more effective compensation model, potentially including fencing the park or enhancing collective guiding systems, to mitigate conflicts and improve conservation outcomes.
Comparing the community dependence on natural resources in Nyungwe National Park and the contribution of revenue sharing through integrated conservation and development projects
A revenue-sharing scheme aimed at balancing biodiversity conservation and community development around Nyungwe National Park (NNP) has shown limited success. Despite investments of approximately 1 billion Rwandan francs supporting 152 projects, local dependence on natural resources—such as stolen exotic tree species and mining—remains high, with 38.6% of respondents citing mining as a primary income source. The scheme failed to significantly reduce threats to biodiversity due to economic gaps that left many community members dissatisfied. Researchers recommend revising the revenue-sharing model to better address livelihood costs and create a true win-win scenario for conservation and development.
Environmental Justice and Women Empowerment in Nyungwe National Park (Rwanda): Case Study of Kitabi Women Handcrafts Cooperative
A case study of the Kitabi Women Handcrafts Cooperative in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, reveals significant strides in women's economic and social empowerment while highlighting persistent challenges in environmental justice. The cooperative, established in 2011 to shift former hunters' wives away from reliance on natural resources, demonstrates measurable progress through access to financial loans, savings, employment, and income-generating projects. Socially, members report improved capacity building and family relations. However, procedural justice remains limited due to a dominant top-down approach that marginalizes women's voices in decision-making processes. Challenges such as crop raiding, slow compensation processes, high-interest rates, and inadequate communication hinder further empowerment. The study recommends adopting a partnership approach to better integrate women's needs and perspectives into conservation policies.
Contribution of Community Conservation and Ecotourism Projects on Improving Livelihoods and Sustainable Biodiversity Conservation in and around Nyungwe National Park (NNP)
Over half of community conservation projects funded through Rwanda's Revenue Sharing Scheme have collapsed due to lack of monitoring and impact evaluation, with no significant reduction in biodiversity threats observed around Nyungwe National Park. The study, analyzing data from 152 projects receiving RwF 1,133,195,986, found that the scheme's effectiveness is hindered by insufficient focus on community conservation compared to law enforcement. Recommendations include strengthening community-based initiatives and revising the revenue-sharing model, set to increase to 10% in fiscal year 2018-2019.
Contribution of Ecotourism to the Conservation of Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda
Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda, despite efforts to integrate local communities into conservation and revenue-sharing programs through ecotourism, faces persistent threats such as poaching, illegal logging, and mining. While tourism numbers have surged recently, community-based initiatives remain underdeveloped, failing to fully address poverty alleviation goals. The study, based on interviews, questionnaires, Range-Based Monitoring (RBM) data, and tourism unit records, highlights the need for improved revenue-sharing mechanisms to enhance conservation participation and community development.
Dung beetle distribution, abundance, and diversity along an elevation gradient in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda: A preliminary survey
Dung beetle species richness in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, is highest at lower elevations (1800m) and declines with increasing elevation, up to 2800m. This pattern contradicts the expectation of even distribution along elevation gradients, supporting previous findings on uneven dung beetle diversity. The study used baited pitfall traps across transects in different elevation bands, recording 162 individuals belonging to eight species categories based on morphological traits. These results provide preliminary insights into the ecological factors influencing dung beetle distribution in high-altitude tropical forests.
Shifting through the forest: home range, movement patterns, and diet of the eastern chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
Eastern chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, exhibit distinct home range and movement patterns influenced by habitat type and seasonal variations. The Mayebe community, residing in the forest center, had a significantly larger home range (21 km²) compared to the Cyamudongo community in a fragmented forest area (4 km²). Movement patterns also varied, with the Mayebe group covering an average of 987 m daily, while the Cyamudongo group covered 651 m. Both communities primarily fed on Ficus spp., but dietary preferences shifted seasonally and monthly, including fruits like Symphonia globulifera and Trilepisium madagascariense. This study provides critical insights into chimpanzee behavior in Rwanda, highlighting the importance of core home range areas for conservation efforts.
The quality and performance nexus of the community-based ecotourism enterprises at Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda: a total quality management perspective
Community-based ecotourism enterprises (CEEs) adjacent to Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, can significantly enhance their performance by adopting total quality management (TQM) practices. Key TQM strategies—such as training programs, benchmarking against industry standards, employee empowerment, and integrating performance metrics—were found to be critical for CEE success. Notably, this study identifies benchmarking and employee empowerment as new dimensions of TQM particularly relevant for small and medium-sized organizations. These insights suggest that a holistic application of TQM practices across all operational stages could improve the sustainability and effectiveness of CEEs, offering a blueprint for similar conservation efforts in developing regions.
Tourists’ preferences for ecotourism planning and development around Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
Tourists visiting Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, prioritize improved product quality, scenic viewpoints, and better infrastructure to enhance their ecotourism experience. A study revealed that while tourists are satisfied with current guiding services, they face constraints due to time and price, limiting longer stays. Key preferences include revising park pricing, upgrading service quality, and expanding information dissemination to attract more visitors and boost park revenues. Researchers used surveys, GPS tracking, and spatial mapping to analyze tourist behavior and preferences, providing actionable insights for ecotourism planning in Rwanda.
The Privatization of the Nyungwe National Park Buffer Zone and Implications for Adjacent Communities
Privatization of Nyungwe National Park's buffer zone significantly reduces resource access for local communities, particularly poorer households. The study reveals that these communities heavily relied on the buffer zone for wood collection, which contributed substantially to their income. Following the privatization by the New Forest Company, stricter enforcement led to increased difficulty in accessing these resources. Semistructured interviews and empirical data on household resource collection from park, buffer zone, markets, and private lands were used to assess the impact of this management change.
A new species of Dystacta Saussure, 1871 from Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda (Insecta, Mantodea, Dystactinae)
A new species of praying mantis, Dystacta tigrifrutex, has been discovered in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. This finding expands the known biodiversity of the region and provides insights into the morphological diversity within the genus Dystacta. The discovery was made through a targeted entomological survey conducted in 2013, which yielded two conspecific specimens—a male and female—along with first-instar nymphs and an ootheca (egg case). Researchers also re-described the previously monotypic genus Dystacta to broaden its definition. The study includes detailed morphological descriptions, measurement data, a key for species identification, natural history information, and locality data, contributing valuable resources for taxonomic studies and biodiversity documentation in Rwanda.
An African glass frog: A new Hyperolius species (Anura: Hyperoliidae) from Nyungwe National Park, southern Rwanda
Scientists have identified a new species of African glass frog, Hyperolius buboneka, within Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. This discovery is notable for its unique combination of traits: a light green dorsum, transparent ventral skin resembling Neotropical glass frogs, blue-colored bones, reduced toe webbing, and distinctive nuptial pads. The species also exhibits a unique advertisement call and genetic differentiation, with mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene analysis revealing at least a 4.5% uncorrected p-distance from other Hyperolius species. This finding highlights the biodiversity of Nyungwe National Park and contributes to our understanding of amphibian evolution in Africa.
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