151 families await Compensation for land acquired for Gishwati Park expansion for nearly 2 years
For nearly two years, 151 families have been waiting for compensation for their land, which was acquired for the expansion of the Gishwati-Mukura National Park.
In Rutsiro District, 151 families have appealed to the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to either compensate them for their land, which was long taken for the Gishwati-Mukura National Park, or return it to them so they can use it to lift themselves out of poverty in other ways.
These residents, primarily from the sectors bordering the park, especially in the Nyabirasi Sector, which has a significant portion of the land, were initially 174 in total. However, only 23 were compensated, leaving 151 families with no compensation for nearly two years.
One resident who spoke to RBA said, “At that time, we asked them to allow us to cut down a few trees to survive, but they advised us to approach the bank. We did, but due to non-payment, penalties were imposed. Even if we received the money today, it would be taken by the bank.”
Another added, “If they don’t compensate us, they should return our property, so we can secure documents to request loans from SACCO to avoid starvation and ensure our children can attend school.”
The Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development in Rutsiro District, Emmanuel Uwizeyimana, mentioned that 57 people had their properties evaluated but did not agree with the compensation amount.
He said, “We are trying to coordinate efforts between the district and RDB to harmonize the evaluation process. So far, 23 people have been compensated, and 36 files are under review by RDB for payment. Last week, 12 files were approved by the District Council.”
The official also noted that there are 45 residents who lack the necessary documents to receive compensation, but he assured that the issue is being addressed on a daily basis and progress is being made.
The Gishwati-Mukura National Park spans across the districts of Nyabihu, Rubavu, and Ngororero, covering over 5,000 hectares. It is home to more than 60 species of trees, 20 groups of primates, and 395 species of birds.
In April 2019, RDB signed a 25-year agreement with Imizi Eco-Tourism Development Ltd to manage and develop Gishwati-Mukura National Park into a key ecotourism site. This deal included activities such as hiking in the park’s mountains, tracking primates and birds, and visiting its waterfalls.
In 2020, the park was designated as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, a global initiative by UNESCO aimed at conserving biodiversity.