Effect of World Heritage Sites on Sustainable Livelihood: A Case Study of Nyungwe National Park, Bushekeri Sector/Rwanda, 2023-2024

The study sought to investigates the effect of world heritage sites on sustainable livelihood: a case study of Nyungwe national park, Bushekeri sector/Rwanda, 2023-2024” thus the main objective of this study was to investigate the site‟s best practices contributing to the Bushekeri Sector population‟s livelihood, to examine the socio-economic conditions of communities in the Bushekeri Sector, and to assess the relationship between the Nyungwe Heritage Site and community livelihoods. The study utilized both quantitative (questionnaires of 390 adult local stakeholders in Bushekeri) and qualitative (interviews with 5 NNP managers/staff, 5 Bushekeri community business practitioners partnering with NNP, and 5 tourism/hospitality professionals near NNP) research methodologies. Purposive quota sampling was used for the interview participants, while the questionnaire respondents were randomly selected. Data from questionnaires and interviews, analyzed using Excel, indicates that respondents acknowledge benefits from Nyungwe National Park (NNP). A significant portion (67.9%) cite community initiatives as a positive practice. Socio-economic conditions have improved since NNP became a World Heritage Site, with tourism-related activities being a major livelihood source (44%). Most respondents (46%) have a positive perception of NNP's role in their living conditions. The relationship between NNP and the community is largely seen as positive and active (79%), with 85% affirming that conservation supports local economic activities. Hospitality (21%) and tourism (41%) are the most impactful sectors. NNP has contributed to economic growth through tourism, capacity building, and infrastructure development. The study emphasizes the importance of community involvement in decision-making for sustainable development and stronger relationships between conservation and local livelihoods.