Assessing the Contribution of Nature-Based Solutions on Climate Resilience in the City of Kigali: A Case Study of Nyandungu Urban Wetland, Rwanda

This study evaluated the contribution of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to enhancing climate resilience in the Nyandungu Urban Wetland in Kigali, Rwanda. Over the past decade, the wetland has undergone restoration through Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) initiatives aimed at mitigating flood risks and improving ecosystem services. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating both quantitative and qualitative research techniques. Primary data collection involved field observations, interviews with key stakeholders, and structured household surveys. Remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used to analyze land cover changes from 2010 to 2023. Hydrological modeling assessed flood susceptibility before and after restoration, while carbon stock estimation evaluated the wetland’s role in climate mitigation. The study also analyzed policy documents to assess governance frameworks supporting NbS interventions. Findings revealed a significant increase in forest cover, from 49 hectares to 83 hectares, and improvements in water-related areas due to the establishment of catchment ponds and ecotourism activities. The Total Ecosystem Service Value (ESV) increased from 97,340 to 127,820 USD per hectare per year, reflecting enhanced forest and water-related services. Flood-prone areas decreased from 26 hectares in 2010 to 2 hectares in 2023, while less flood-susceptible areas increased from 30 hectares to 119.7 hectares. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) showed improved vegetation health, and the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) highlighted slight increases in water content. These results underscore the effectiveness of EbA in improving the wetland’s resilience to flooding and enhancing its ecosystem service provision. The study recommends further NbS interventions, such as vegetated swales, rain gardens, and detention basins, to further strengthen the wetland’s capacity to cope with climate change impacts. This research contributes valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers aiming to integrate NbS into urban climate resilience strategies. Keywords: Nature-based Solutions, Climate Resilience, Nyandungu Urban Wetland, Wetland Restoration, Flood Risk Reduction, Ecosystem Services, Kigali, Rwanda