Dissertations

Effect of Ecosystem based adaptation interventions on micro-climate variability and improvement of crop yields in Mushongi Cell, Mpanga Sector, KIREHE District, Rwanda

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Effect of Ecosystem based adaptation interventions on micro-climate variability and improvement of crop yields in Mushongi Cell, Mpanga Sector, KIREHE District, Rwanda KASHIRANDE, Henriette The climate variability and change in Rwanda caused different issues like drought and floods as results of heavy precipitation and hot days. These issues affect negatively agricultural production leading to bad living condition. Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) is a good solution to help human being to adapt to the unpleasant effects of climate variability and change. This Study on Effect of EbA interventions on climate variability and improvement of crop yields was conducted in Mushongi cell of Mpanga Sector, Kirehe District, Rwanda. It was conducted with three objectives. (i) To assess the impacts of EbA intervention on land use practices (forestry, agroforestry and crop land) (ii) To analyze the effects of EbA intervention on micro-climate variability (iii) To investigate the effect of EbA intervention on crop production.Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to achieve the objective of research. A survey questionnaire with 220 respondents and 5 interviews were conducted. Remote sensing and GIS were also used to analyze land use change detection using satellite images and supervised classification techniques. The maps of land use were compared using GIS for land use change detection. SPSS software was used to analyze data from survey whereas NVIVO was used to analyze the data from interview. The results showed that the implementation of EbA project in the study area displayed a positive effect on climate variability mitigation and increase crop yield as well as land use change. About 92.3 % of respondents said that their land was used for agricultural (cropping) production whereas 100% of respondents highlighted that after implementation of EbA, their lands are used for agroforestry. EbA activities area played important role including fuelwood and stakes (97.7%) the the soil erosion control (96.8%); the planted trees in EbA protect plants against heavy wind (90.0%), generated income for farmers (88.6%), increased soil fertility through recycling of nutrient from the deeper soil with (85.5%). After EbA, crops were growing well as confirmed by 98.6% of respondents, rainfall was sufficient for 97.7% of respondents and coming on regular basis 91.4% of respondents). The yield of crops increased as confirmed by respondents. Around 87.7% of respondents said that the maize increased whereas 86.8% of respondents confirmed that the yield of beans was increased.This is study found that EbA approach improved adaptation of people to climate variability effects because farmers get different benefits both socio-economic and environmental. This study also recommends to use EbA approach to help people to mitigate the impacts of climate variability but also to investigate different factor that help crops to grow well in agroforestry system. Master's Dissertation

Utilization of engineering and management strategies to minimize traffic fatalities and severe injuries on asphalt roads in Rwanda: the case of Kigali City

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Utilization of engineering and management strategies to minimize traffic fatalities and severe injuries on asphalt roads in Rwanda: the case of Kigali City NIYOMUGABO, Jean Damascene Road traffic injuries continue to pose a major public health and development challenge in Rwanda, particularly in urban centers like Kigali where vulnerable road users (VRUs) frequently interact with mixed traffic under inadequate infrastructure conditions. This study assessed the utilization of engineering and management strategies to minimize traffic fatalities and severe injuries along the CBD Roundabout- KN1–RN1 Giticyinyoni corridor a 6.3 km stretch with high pedestrian and motorcyclist activity and recurrent crash hotspots. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 384 respondents through structured questionnaires, field observations, and key informant interviews. Descriptive analysis revealed that 59.9% of respondents had witnessed or been involved in a road crash along the corridor, with the highest concentration at Nyabugogo intersection (71.3%) and the Giticyinyoni curve (48.2%). Chi-square analysis showed a statistically significant association between crash experience and occupation (χ² = 36.28, p < 0.001), with drivers and pedestrians reporting the highest exposure. ANOVA results indicated significant differences in perceived enforcement effectiveness across user groups (F = 14.40, p < 0.001), with traffic police rating enforcement more favourably than other road users. More than 56% of respondents suggested urgent repairs to traffic signals, and 51.6% recommended the installation of automated enforcement systems such as speed cameras. Open-ended responses emphasized infrastructure needs including pedestrian overpasses (23.2%), protected cycling lanes (19.8%), and redesign of hazardous locations like the Giticyinyoni curve (17.7%). The study concludes that a combination of inadequate infrastructure, insufficient enforcement, and limited public awareness significantly contributes to traffic-related fatalities and injuries in Kigali. Master's Dissertation

Techno-economic analysis of integrating solar PV systems into off-grid telecom towers in Rwanda: Case study Karongi-Murundi KTRN telecom tower

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Techno-economic analysis of integrating solar PV systems into off-grid telecom towers in Rwanda: Case study Karongi-Murundi KTRN telecom tower NKURIKIYIMANA, Samuel The rapid growth of Rwanda's telecommunication infrastructure has created a greater demand for reliable and cost-effective energy solutions, particularly for off-grid telecom towers. Many of these sites still depend on diesel generators, which come with high fuel costs, significant carbon emissions, and ongoing maintenance challenges. This research investigates the technoeconomic feasibility of integrating solar PV systems into off-grid telecom towers, using the Murundi KTRN Telecom Tower as a case study. The goal is to assess the potential of replacing diesel generators with a solar PV and battery storage system, focusing on its technical, economic, and environmental advantages. To achieve this, the study employs hybrid research methodology, combining data collection, system modeling, and financial analysis. Key aspects such as load demand patterns, energy consumption, and diesel generator operating costs were analyzed to understand current power needs. The system was then simulated using PVsyst software, which provided insights into optimal system sizing, battery autonomy, inverter capacity, and overall efficiency. This approach ensures that the proposed solar PV solution is both technically sound and economically viable, offering a sustainable alternative for powering off-grid telecom infrastructure. The findings demonstrate that a 30.2 kWp solar PV system with a 7400 Ah lithium-ion battery storage can effectively meet the telecom tower's energy demand, ensuring two days of autonomy and significantly reducing reliance on the backup generator. The system achieves a solar fraction of 78.08% and a performance ratio of 74.78%, indicating high operational efficiency. Financial analysis reveals an LCOE of $0.16/kWh, a payback period of approximately two years, and an ROI of 1139.5%, making it a cost-effective alternative to diesel-powered systems. Furthermore, the system is projected to eliminate 132.6 million Rwandan francs in fuel costs over five years while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions. The study concludes that integrating solar PV systems in off-grid telecom towers is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable. Future research should focus on battery storage optimization, hybrid renewable energy integration, and demand-side management strategies to further improve system efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The study’s findings provide a scalable model for deploying renewable energy solutions in remote telecom infrastructure, supporting Rwanda’s clean energy transition and sustainable development objectives. Master's Dissertation

Analysis of geometric design factors influencing driver behaviour and road safety: a case study of Rwanda’’

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Analysis of geometric design factors influencing driver behaviour and road safety: a case study of Rwanda’’ Munyaneza, Abudulazaq This study investigates the influence of geometric design parameters on driver behavior and road safety along the national road linking Kigali to the Western Province known as the Kigali– Rubavu road (NR2) which is classified as a Class II Road according to the RTDA Road Geometric Design Manual (2014). A total of 40 road segments (20 curved and 20 straight) were assessed through a combination of geometric compliance analysis, statistical modeling, and user perception surveys to understand how design features affect safety outcomes. The study was guided by the following objectives: (1) to assess the compliance of road geometric elements with RTDA and AASHTO standards; (2) to determine and quantify the impact of geometric parameters such as curve radius, gradient, shoulder width, and lane width on accident frequency using statistical models; (3) to investigate how these design features influence driver behavior and comfort, particularly regarding perceived risk and speed management; and (4) to evaluate the role of geometry in the frequency and severity of accidents on Rwandan national roads. Geometric assessment revealed widespread non-compliance, especially among curved segments, where substandard curve radii, excessive Superelevation, steep gradients, and limited visibility were prevalent. Notably, the posted speed limits of 60–80 km/h along NR2 exactly match the design speed range recommended for this terrain classification, providing no additional safety buffer. Field observations confirmed that many drivers exceeded these limits shortly after posted signs particularly in the areas without Speed Camera Stations indicating issues with compliance and enforcement. Quantitative analysis using SPSS showed that a multiple linear regression model explained 93.8% of the variation in accident frequency, with driver comfort, lane width, and shoulder width emerging as significant predictors. Poisson regression analysis confirmed the influence of geometric factors, though with marginal statistical significance. Surveys of 100 drivers and 45 road design engineers further emphasized that sharp curves, steep slopes, and visibility limitations are critical safety concerns. Engineers also reported that accident data and sight distance considerations are often overlooked in practice. iv The findings indicate that several segments along NR2 are poorly designed and fall short of compliance, contributing to elevated crash risk. The study recommends enhancing geometric design enforcement, adjusting posted speed limits to include a safety margin, incorporating perception and crash data into the design process, and addressing geometric deficiencies particularly in curved and mountainous terrain to improve road safety in Rwanda. Furthermore, the study provides a foundation for future research to extend the analysis to other major highways across Rwanda, enabling comparative insights and broader policy implications. Master's Dissertation