Promoting Multi-Functional Fruit Trees in Vulnerable Urban Steep Slopes and Informal Settlements: A case of Biryogo Primary School Kigali, Rwanda

International Journal of Agriculture & Environmental Science

© 2018 by SSRG - IJAES Journal

Volume 5 Issue 6

Year of Publication : 2018

Authors : Nalumu Julian Dorothy, Storch Harry, Mensah Henry

10.14445/23942568/IJAES-V5I6P102

How to Cite?

Nalumu Julian Dorothy, Storch Harry, Mensah Henry, "Promoting Multi-Functional Fruit Trees in Vulnerable Urban Steep Slopes and Informal Settlements: A case of Biryogo Primary School Kigali, Rwanda ," SSRG International Journal of Agriculture & Environmental Science, vol. 5,  no. 6, pp. 6-12, 2018. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942568/IJAES-V5I6P102

Abstract:

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 analysed using SWOT and thematic analysis to establish the different fruit trees species suitable for urban farms and school gardens. 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. Whereas few respondents mentioned that fruit trees could stabilise 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 a solution to address and promote fruit tree growing and school learning gardens at the national and local level - Biryogo primary school.

Keywords:

Fruit Trees, Informal Settlements, Multi-functional benefits, Rwanda

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