Abstract:
Urban climate resilience has become a global critical issue as cities face increasing challenges from climate change impacts. As Rwanda aspires to be a developed nation with urbanization as a key factor for the development, building urban climate resilience is essential. However, Kigali is still challenged by climate change impacts. The case of the Nyabugogo business centre, an important commercial hub located along a major river, is vulnerable to flooding, air pollution and heat islands that threaten environment, human health and economic development of the area. Therefore, this study aims to undertake a spatial SWOT assessment of land use for green element compliance, as exploring the opportunity to facilitate improving Nyabugogo business centre’s climate resilience.
This research employed qualitative methods, combining spatial and non-spatial data collected through field surveys, community interviews, and desk reviews. The data were analysed using spatial analysis techniques, including a Spatial SWOT analysis, therefore by undertaking a spatial assessment of the study areas and its surrounding, result shows the enhancement of study area’s climate resilience require taking into account the 33.9% of land use that are deviating from implementing proposed green elements. Also, the development of the study area should be underway by emphasizing on the presence of extensive, inefficient and depreciated, transportation facilities and significant traffic congestion. Also, by addressing a concentration of commercial and residential buildings that are lacking lands for green areas. Furthermore, mitigate threats upon an area dominated by the existing natural environmental. This would be undertaken through recommended green mobility practices, climate resident initiatives within built up areas and protect the existing natural environmental areas.
