IMPACT OF GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) ON LAND MANAGEMENT IN RWANDA. CASE STUDY: RUBAVU DISTRICT (2015 -2024)

Abstract

The general objective of this study is to assess the impact geographical information system (GIS) in land management in Rwanda. Case study: Rubavu district (2015 -2024). The specific objectives were to identify the major factors driving land management, to show how GIS Techniques can be applied on land use management and to examine the overall impacts of GIS on land management. The results show that the level of land management in Rubavu district is characterized by clear land records, land use monitoring, effective and efficient land transfers, proper lad taxation and land disputes resolution. GIS plays a crucial role in land management of Rubavu district. Starting from the first phase of land use planning where by it simplifies the territorial planning, operating, analyzing important data concerning their spatial relationship that allows carrying complex assessment of the situation and creates basis for more exact reasonable decisions regarding land use in this district. To ensure a good land administration a number of data and procedures are required for demarcation and recording. It may entails details such as ownership, land use, land value, land use plan, site development plan, utility plan, survey information, other attributes such as name of owner, plot number, size, use, location, transaction records such as deed of assignment, sublease, mortgage, devolution, release etc. GIS has the capabilities to handle such huge data not only effective but also efficient, secured, faster, and transparent. From these, we can be able to summarize the following advantages of GIS in land administration: It will facilitate land registration processes, data processing, storage and retrieval as well as reduce time, cost and space required for land record and management. It will enhance academic research as access to information will be easy. Guarantee tenure security and transparency among land owners. This will enhance sustainable development. The GIS technology will reduce dispute among land owners thus, mitigate court cases. It would sanitized the system of land transactions in general. Provide security for credit from banks and thus, enhance efficient land market, housing, construction and financial institutions. GIS data base system for land management guarantee data backup in the event of system breakdown. GIS database can provide previous and up to date Maps, layout, plans with details if require at fingertips. GIS database can accept updates easily. Since the GIS database is embedded with information, every potential buyer will want to authenticate (attest) whether the land is genuine and free from stains. GIS allow information sharing by different users at different time.