GIS use and Land Conflict in Rwanda: Case of Gasabo District

Authors

Emmanuel Mushimiyimana, University of RwandaFollow

Keywords

GIS, Land, Conflict, Rwanda, Gasabo

Content Language

EN

Abstract

Land conflicts in Rwanda have been exacerbated by demographic boom, land scarcity, and social and political instability. Therefore, Rwanda adopted Geographical Information System (GIS) to empower existing traditional land demarcation in order to defuse land conflict. The aim of this research is to investigate and seek the effectiveness of GIS application and Land Information System (LIS) to land-based conflict with a special focus on Gasabo District and the challenges related to that. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods were used to collect and analyse data. Besides, the research used purposive sampling techniques in getting access to potential respondents of a sample of 30 land surveyors and land officers at Gasabo District. The study found that (1) GIS is important to solve the issues of land conflict especially on the point of land demarcation and zoning; (2) the applicability of GIS and LIS (Land Information System) solved an average of 61.1% of the total land related disputes from 2015 to 2019. However, the challenges were that the pre implementation of GIS period was characterized by lack of a legal and political framework for land use, reform and ownership especially considering a number of people who were deprived of their land due to the history of the country. In terms of value distribution of land through GIS, there is a need to take into consideration land price information and zoning with typical characteristics of spatial distribution of use (commercial, residential, and industrial).

Recommended Citation

Mushimiyimana, Emmanuel (2023) "GIS use and Land Conflict in Rwanda: Case of Gasabo District," Journal of African Conflicts and Peace Studies: Vol. 5: Iss. 1, .
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/jacaps/vol5/iss1/7