Abstract:
Biodiversity, the variety of life in all its forms and interactions, plays a fundamental role in maintaining
ecological balance and supporting human wellbeing. Ecologically sensitive areas are under increasing
pressure from human activities, and the role of local communities in biodiversity conservation is crucial
for achieving sustainable outcomes. Engaging local communities in biodiversity conservation becomes
vital to promote shared responsibility, preserve ecological integrity, and secure a sustainable future for
both people and nature. This study aimed to assess the level of community awareness, participation, and
engagement in wildlife conservation along the Lake Kivu shores and within remnant forests located in the
Rusizi and Nyamasheke Districts of Western Rwanda. Data were collected through a combination of
questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions, questionnaires targeted community members to
assess their awareness, participation, and engagement in biodiversity conservation. Means, percentages
and comparisons were used to analyze levels of awareness, participation in wildlife conservation activities,
and community engagement in decision-making processes. The results highlight the need for targeted
awareness programs and inclusive conservation strategies to strengthen community engagement in
biodiversity protection. The results indicated that while 65% of respondents were aware of the concept of
biodiversity, only 45% had a comprehensive understanding of its importance. Active participation in
conservation efforts under 40%, with greater engagement observed in communities adjacent to remnant
forests (45%) compared to those along Lake Kivu shores (35%). Only 30% of respondents reported being
involved in conservation-related decision-making, reflecting a top-down approach in environmental
governance. Nonetheless, a significant 75% of respondents acknowledged the importance of wildlife
conservation for ecosystem services (78%) and community well-being (72%). A structured questionnaire
was administered to 193 respondents across selected sectors in the two districts. The study shows a
generally positive attitude toward conservation but identifies a gap between awareness and active
participation. To improve conservation outcomes, strategies should focus on enhancing environmental
education, promoting inclusive community engagement, and building strong local ownership. Visual aids
such as charts and maps help illustrate variations in conservation awareness and participation across
regions. This research underscores the importance of adopting locally participatory conservation
approaches in Rwanda.
