IMPACT OF RELOCATION STRATEGY ON REDUCING NATURAL DISASTER RISKS IN RWANDA A CASE STUDY OF NYABIHU DISTRICT (2021 - 2024)

Abstract

This study, titled "Impact of Relocation Strategy on Reducing Natural Disaster Risks in Rwanda: A Case Study of Nyabihu District (2021 - 2024)," investigates the effectiveness of relocation as a strategy to mitigate vulnerability to natural disasters in the Nyabihu District of Rwanda.

15 Employing a mixed methods design, the research utilizes purposive simple random sampling techniques alongside questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis for data collection. The data processing incorporates tabulation, coding, and editing while historical and comparative, and analytical methods were used in the data analysis. The findings reveal that relocation has significantly reduced natural disaster risks, with new settlements demonstrating enhanced safety and resilience compared to previous locations. Additionally, the study highlights positive impacts on the community's socio-economic development, including increased employment opportunities, improved access to education and health services, strengthened social ties, and enhanced living standards. However, the study also identifies critical challenges in implementing relocation programs, such as insufficient funding, inadequate communication between authorities and communities, logistical obstacles, and slow compensation processes, which hinder the effectiveness of these initiatives. The study recommends that funds for relocation programs should be increased and also the communication strategies should be enhanced as well as coordination among agencies should be improved.