Assessing the Socioeconomic Impacts of Landslides Disasters on Rural Communities: A Case Study: Kagogo Sector in Burera District

Abstract: The study examined the socioeconomic impact of landslide disasters on rural communities in Kagogo Sector, Burera District, Rwanda—a high-risk zone frequently affected by landslides that destroy homes and threaten lives. The research aimed to identify the causes of landslides, analyze their socioeconomic effects, and assess the link between their occurrence and community welfare. Using a descriptive survey design, the study targeted 5,290 households, sampling 400 households and 5 local leaders through purposive, stratified, and simple random sampling. Data collection involved questionnaires, interviews, documentation, and field visits, with results presented using tables, figures, and charts. Analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics, including regression in SPSS. Findings revealed that landslides are mainly caused by heavy rainfall, soil composition, steep slopes, vegetation loss, and poor land use planning. Human activities such as deforestation, improper farming, mining, quarrying, and road construction exacerbate the problem. Landslides result in soil degradation, deaths, injuries, and homelessness, severely affecting socioeconomic conditions. Statistical analysis indicated that landslides negatively impact socioeconomic status by 91.39%, with strong agreement among respondents on the key issues. The study recommends that the government promote reforestation, strengthen Meteo Rwanda’s disaster preparedness, and that communities avoid practices contributing to landslides. Keywords: Socioeconomic impacts, landslides, disasters, Rural community, topography. Title: Assessing the Socioeconomic Impacts of Landslides Disasters on Rural Communities: A Case Study: Kagogo Sector in Burera District Author: TURIKUNKIKO Blaise, Dr. Jean Baptiste NSENGIYUMVA International Journal of Life Sciences Research ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 3, July 2025 - September 2025 Page No: 5-20 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 04-July-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15807039 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/assessing-the-socioeconomic-impacts-of-landslides-disasters-on-rural-communities-a-case-study-kagogo-sector-in-burera-district