The Role of Nature-Based Solutions in Building Urban Climate Resilience in Rwanda: A Case Study of Gasabo District
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t2566Abstract
This study examined the role of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) in enhancing urban climate resilience in Gasabo District, Kigali City, Rwanda, focusing on biodiversity conservation, flood risk reduction, and climate regulation. A mixed-methods design was used, combining quantitative data from 400 household respondents across 15 sectors, qualitative insights from 15 key informants, and GIS/Remote Sensing analysis of Land Use Land Cover (LULC) and NDVI changes between 2005 and 2025. Findings show that NbS interventions such as urban tree planting, agroforestry, and wetland restoration are widely implemented. Vegetation cover increased from 27% in 2005 to 39% in 2025, while mean NDVI rose from 0.680 to 0.726, indicating improved ecosystem health. Results further confirm strong contributions of NbS to biodiversity, flood reduction, and climate regulation. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between NbS and urban resilience indicators. The study concludes that NbS significantly enhance urban climate resilience and recommends scaling up interventions, improving institutional coordination, and integrating NbS into urban planning and climate adaptation strategies.
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