Assessing factors influencing household dependency on forest resources in Nyaruguru District, Rwanda

Abstract

In Rwanda, particularly in Nyaruguru District, many rural households continue to rely heavily on forest resources due to poverty, limited livelihood opportunities, and inadequate access to alternative energy sources. This increasing dependence contributes to pressure on forest ecosystems and challenges sustainable forest management efforts. The study aimed to assess the level of household dependence on forest resources and identify the socio-economic, environmental, and institutional factors influencing this dependence in Nyaruguru District. A cross-sectional study design was employed, and primary data were collected from 398 households and key informants using structured questionnaires and interviews. The findings showed that forest resources were widely used for household energy, construction materials, food, medicinal purposes, and income generation. About 35.7% of households used forest products daily, while 24.1% used them two to three times per week. Energy needs were the main reason for dependence, reported by 91% of households. Forest resources also contributed significantly to household livelihoods, with 33.7% of households obtaining between 10% and 25% of their income from forest products, and 16.1% earning more than half of their household income from forest-related activities. The study further revealed that larger household size, lower education levels, low household income, proximity to forests, and limited access to alternative energy sources increased dependence on forest resources. Institutional factors such as limited awareness of forest conservation policies and low participation in community forest management systems also influenced household reliance on forests. The study concluded that household dependence on forest resources in Nyaruguru District is driven by interconnected socio-economic, environmental, and institutional factors. The findings emphasize the need to promote affordable alternative energy sources, strengthen community-based forest management, improve environmental awareness, and support income-generating activities that reduce pressure on forest resources while enhancing sustainable livelihoods.