UNIT 11: ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN RWANDA
11.1. AGRICULTURE
Key Unit competence: The student-teacher should be able to investigate the impact of various agricultural activities on the sustainable development in Rwanda.
Introductory Activity
Observe the photograph below and answer the following questions:
1. Describe the economic activity identified on the photograph by giving evidence.
2. Identify the contribution of agriculture on the sustainable development of Rwanda.
3. Describe different factors influencing small animal farming in Rwanda.
11.1.1. Crop cultivation in Rwanda
Learning activity 11.1.1
Based on your past knowledge and other sources of geographical information;
1. Explain subsistence farming.
2. Mention the subsistence crops that are grown in your region.
3. Outline the characteristics of subsistence farming.
Agriculture is defined as the growing of crops and the rearing of animals either for subsistence or for commercial purposes.
The subsistence crop cultivation refers to the growing of crops on a small scale for domestic purposes and the surplus for sale.
Therefore, subsistence crop cultivation is the growing of crops such as maize, beans, Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, Sorghum, banana, cassava, etc.
11.1.1.1.Characteristics of subsistence farming
• Crops grown are on small scale and are mainly food crops for home consumption
• Simple tools such as hand hoes are used
• Use of poor methods of farming such as over cultivation, cultivating upper hills, etc.
• Different crops are grown together
• Low yield per square unit of land cultivated
• Farms are owned by individuals
• It employs people who are mainly members of the family and at times few hired workers.
11.1.1.2. Types of crop cultivation in Rwanda
a) Types of Subsistence crop cultivation
i) Shifting cultivation / Non sedentary farming
Shifting cultivation, is an agricultural system in which plots of land are cultivated temporarily, then abandoned and allowed to revert to their natural vegetation while the cultivator moves on to another plot. It is also known as slash and burn because under shifting cultivation, farmers clear the natural vegetation, cut it into pieces and then burn the cuttings or cleared vegetation.
ii) Rotational bush fallowing
Rotational bush fallowing is a system of farming whereby the farmer cultivates one piece of land for some years and leave it thereafter with the aim of restoring naturally its fertility. Meanwhile, the farmer will be cultivating another piece of land.
Rotational bush fallowing method differs from shifting cultivation in that farmers are settled and hence are rotating rather than shifting to a new home. This system of cultivation is the simplest form of sedentary farming. It replaces shifting cultivation after this has failed to perform well due to rapid increase in population.
iii) Small holder
Small holder, this is a type of farming that is practiced in densely populated areas. It is a more advanced form of subsistence farming where the lands have been fragmented into very small pieces that are owned by individuals. Crop rotation, mixing, inter cropping, application of fertilizers etc. are applied.
Advantages of subsistence farming
• It is easy to manage mainly because it involves the members of the family to grow crops.
• People are assured of enough food supply because crops grown are for consumption.
• It is cheap because it requires very little investment.
• The farmer is free from government taxation.
• A farmer has a chance of saving some money.
• Soil fertility is maintained because of growing different crops.
b) Types of modern crop cultivation in Rwanda
i) Plantation crop cultivation in Rwanda
Plantation refers to large scale growing of a single crop using scientific methods of farming and purposely for sale.
In Rwanda, the major plantation crops grown are tea, sugar canes, coffee and pyrethrum.
The major areas of plantations include the following:
• Coffee
The most important types of coffee grown in Rwanda are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica which is mostly grown is believed to have been introduced in Rwanda by German Missionaries. Arabica is mostly grown in high altitude while Robusta is usually grown in humid areas at low altitude.
• Tea plantations are especially found at Gisakura, Shagasha, Gisovu, Pfunda, Nyabihu, Rubaya, Mata, Kitabi, Nshiri-Kivu, Mulindi and Mukamira.
Tea Plantation
• Pyrethrum plantations are mostly found alongside the Birunga chain of mountains like Gahinga, Kinigi and Karisimbi. The main districts for this plantation are Burera, Rubavu and Nyabihu.
PYRETHRUM GROWING
Sugarcane plantations are largely found at Kabuye-Nyacyonga, Nyabugogo valley and alongside Nyabarongo river valley.
Sugarcane Plantation
Characteristics of plantation farming
• It requires great capital for investment.
• Large size of land (big scale) which leads to specialization of labour on plantations.
• Plantations are usually mechanized and scientific techniques of farming are used. E.g.: use of selected and improved seeds, application of fertilizers, etc
. • Plantation are mainly owned by foreigners, large companies, the government or cooperatives
• The crop is processed where it is grown before exportation.
• There is less wastage of crop. E.g.: From sugarcane, we get sugar, sweets, animal feeds, fertilizers, etc.
• Crops grown are for commercial purposes and mainly for export.
• There is monoculture which means that there is specialization in the production of a single crop.
• Very many people are employed in different activities.
• Plantation farmers offer social services such as schools, hospitals, etc to the workers.
• They are normally established in sparsely populated areas.
• They cover large areas which reach to over 10 ha.
Advantages of plantation farming
• Plantations offer employment opportunities to many people both skilled and unskilled due to different activities.
• They stimulate the development of industries mainly processing industries.
• Plantation farming leads to the development of infrastructures such as roads, schools, Markets, etc.
• The country raises foreign exchange when the crops are exported.
• It is a source of income to the government and people.
• It improves the standards of living of the people because it provides market to rural people.
• People living nearby the plantation get the technical knowledge of how to grow the crops scientifically.
Disadvantages or problems of plantation farming
• There is price fluctuation when there is no demand for that particular crop on the world market.
• There is soil exhaustion due to monoculture.
• It is expensive because many people can’t manage it.
• It can lead to famine because food crops are neglected.
• It may lead to the displacement of people because large areas are required.
• They are costly because they require long gestation period to be harvested.
• The crops may be destroyed in case of disease and pest or in case of natural hazards.
ii) A market garden
This is a form of farming that is relatively small-scale specializing in cultivation of fruits, vegetables and flowers as cash crops, frequently sold directly to nearby consumers and restaurants.
iii) Horticulture
This means culture or cultivation of garden crops by growing of crops that are highly perishable like fruits, vegetables, flowers and crops like spices, condiments. The horticultural activity involves planting and tending to planted ornamental and food plants. They therefore need to be as near the market as possible for quick consumption.
11.1.1.3. Problems and solutions to crop cultivation in Rwanda
Application activity 11.1.1
1. Suggest the measures that should be taken to address the challenges facing crop growing in swamps of Rwanda.
2. Analyze ways in which plantation agriculture can be improved in Rwanda.
11.1.2. LIVESTOCK FARMING IN RWANDA
Learning activity 11.1.2
Visit a nearest farm:
1. Find out the factors that hinder the development of dairy farming in the farm that you have visited.
2. How does small subsistence farming differ from large scale farming? 3. Explain the contribution of that farm to the nearby people.
Livestock refers to the rearing of domesticated animals either for subsistence or for commercial purposes.
In Rwanda, there is both traditional livestock farming and modern livestock farming.
11.1.2.1.Traditional livestock farming or pastoralism
It refers to the keeping of local breeds of animals for subsistence purposes. It is carried out in sparsely populated areas. E.g.: Cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, rabbits, hens etc.
Traditional livestock farming in Rwanda based on sedentary pastoralism. This term “sedentary” simply means where animals are kept for subsistence on the same piece of land where herds can go out and come back even when conditions are unfavourable.
11.1.2.2 Modern Livestock Farming in Rwanda
This is aimed at rearing animals for commercial purposes using modern or scientific methods. It is therefore a tendency to shift from nomadism to controlled grazing.
Types of modern livestock farming in Rwanda
1. Dairy farming
Dairy farming refers to the rearing or keeping of animals for milk and its products such as cheese, butter, etc.
In Rwanda, it is mostly practiced in low lying plains and on mountain slopes with enough moisture and moderate temperatures. The main areas include Nyabisindu, Gishwati, Rubirizi, Songa, Cyeru, Rugende, and Eastern province .
Characteristics of dairy farms in Rwanda
Dairy farms in Rwanda is Characterized by:
• Improved breeds of animals are reared specifically for milk and its products.
• Animals are reared in the paddocks with necessary facilities such as veterinary services.
• There are improved crop pastures such as Alfalfa, elephant grass, scetaria and others.
• There is cross breeding between improved races of cattle.
• Most animals are fed indoors (zero grazing) to maintain proper management and care. The modern breeds of animals reared for dairy farming include: Freesian cattle, the Boran cattle, Hairshire and others.
2. Ranching
Ranching is the rearing of animals for production of meat.
Characteristics of ranching farming
• Improved breeds of sheep, goats and cattle are kept.
• Animals are reared on land individually owned or under cooperative units.
• The movement of animals is confined to the paddock within the ranch.
• There is grazing on both natural and artificial pastures, for example Alfalfa.
• Exotic breeds, cross breeds and local breeds are all kept together.
• Ranches are scientifically managed and there is use of artificial insemination, food mixers, de-worming, de-horning, and dipping among other modern practices.
• There is neither overgrazing nor overstocking in ranches.
• A huge capital investment is required to purchase machinery, pay workers, fence off the ranches and to maintain them.
• There is constant record keeping of all inputs and outputs.
3. Zero grazing
Zero grazing: Is a kind of intensive livestock rearing without pasture land. Animals are kept in the shed where they are fed with fodder and supplementary food.
Characteristic of zero grazing
The following are some characteristics of Zero grazing in Rwanda:
• Practice of improved breeds
• Improved food made of fodder and industrial products.
• Modern techniques of crossing breeds (artificial insemination).
• Is a farming method that involves keeping cows inside enclosed shelters.
• Zero-grazing is a good system of keeping dairy cattle in densely populated areas, where land is small.
• Huge capital is involved to keep cattle.
• Output is good and high for all level (milk, meat, butter, etc).
11.1.2.2. General problems affecting livestock in Rwanda
a) Climatic changes mainly in the eastern province due to rapid increase of temperatures which may result into poor pastures and springs disappear.
b) Lack of sufficient markets for the products from livestock.
c) Pests and diseases in some seasons of the year which may affect the production.
d) Poor breeds of animals which lead to death and poor productions.
e) Uncontrolled grazing which leads to soil erosion.
f) Lack of veterinary services and facilities in some areas of the country.
g) Population growth which causes pressure on pasture.
h) Poor transport and storage facilities from farms to milk collecting centres and to markets.
11.1.2.3. Ways of improving the livestock farming in Rwanda
• Replacing the local breeds of animals with the exotic to increase the output. Where possible, crossbreeding should be introduced.
• The farmers should be organized into cooperative societies so that they pool resources together and be done in order to isolate the diseased animals in time to avoid the spread of diseases.
• Provision of market in ranching areas.
• Construction of water valley-dams so as to ensure constant water supply of water.
• Use of scientific methods to improve on pasture in addition to planting drought resistant grasses.
• Extending veterinary services to all the areas where the livestock keeping is practiced.
• Establishing ranch management schools where people can learn modern methods of ranch management.
• Fencing of land, this results in controlled grazing and ensuring of constant supply of pasture.in addition to minimizing the dangers of pests and diseases.
• Encouraging tree planting on pasture land. This minimizes the dangers of environmental deterioration in addition to provision of shelter to animals.
• Several milk collecting centres should be established near the farmers to avoid wastage.
Application activity 11.1.2
1. Identify the key factors influencing dairy farming in Rwanda.
2. Explain major challenges of traditional livestock farming in Rwanda.
3. Suggest different ways of improving livestock farming in your region.
Skills lab
After studying different types of agricultural systems in Rwanda, make a business plan you intend to start at home.
End unit assessment
1. Explain the impact of population pressure on the agriculture of Rwanda.
2. What can people do to improve agricultural productivity?
3. Examine the role played by agriculture products in industrial development of Rwanda. 4. Describe the relationship between livestock and crop cultivation.
11.2. MINING IN RWANDA
Key Unit Competence: The student-teacher should be able to investigate the impact of mining on the sustainable development in Rwanda.
Introductory Activity
Study this photograph below and answer questions that follow.
1. Identify the activity that is taking place in the photograph shown above.
2. Mention areas in Rwanda where the activity identified takes place.
3. Assess the impact of the activity on the environment.
11.2. Types of major minerals, their importance, problems and solutions to mining in Rwanda
Learning activity 11.2
Draw a sketch map of Rwanda and on it, indicate the various mining areas and the types of minerals found in the areas.
1. Identify the importance of mining in Rwanda.
2. Describe the problems facing mining industry in Rwanda.
a) Types and distribution of the major minerals in Rwanda
Major mining areas in Rwanda
b) Importance of mining to the economy of Rwanda
The mining sector in Rwanda plays a significant role in the economic development of the country
• Mining has led to the development of other industries which use the minerals as a raw material.
• Mining has led to the development of social facilities such as schools and hospitals that are located near the mining centres.
• The sector provides employment to the people who work in the mines thus providing them with a source of income that improves their standards of living.
• The mining sector earns the country foreign exchange through the export of minerals.
• The sector provides revenue to the government through taxation.
• Mining has led to economic diversification. It has reduced the country’s overdependence on agriculture.
C) Problems affecting the mining and their solutions.
i) Problems affecting the development of mining industry in Rwanda
The major problems affecting the mining industry of Rwanda include the following:
• The absence of high-grade ores deposit in Rwanda, existence of small quantities makes it uneconomical to exploit them. • Lack of enough capital to invest in the development of mining which causes Rwanda to still use poor methods of mining. • Shortage of internal market for mineral ores which therefore lead to their exportation and thus price fluctuation on the world market.
• Competition of mining sector of Rwanda and that of other countries.
• Shortage of power to use in form of hydroelectric power.
• Loss of lives in the mining areas. Some mining sites collapse with the workers inside the mines. This leads to loss of lives and discourages people from working in the mines.
• Most mining activities are controlled by foreign companies. As a result, a big part of the revenue from the sector is repatriated.
• Poor transport due to lack of good roads and railways that makes some areas especially those in the mountainous areas inaccessible.
• Shortage of skilled manpower for exploitation of minerals.
ii) Possible solutions to the problems of mining in Rwanda
• Introduction of improved and modern methods of mining. This will increase the mining output and the quality of products.
• Hiring of skilled labour force and training the local workers in order to empower them.
• The government should give local companies financial assistance.
• In areas where large mineral deposits have been identified, the government should construct roads, railways and airports.
• Safety standards and the working conditions of the employees should be improved so as to guard against accidents that lead to loss of lives.
• More industries that use minerals as raw materials should be established in order to increase the local demand for mining output.
Application activity 11. 2
1. Evaluate the negative effects of mining on the physical environment of Rwanda.
2. Suggest ways of protecting the environment from the damage caused by mineral exploration and exploitation.
3. Account for the low levels of mineral exploitation in Rwanda.
Skills lab
There are many minerals in the environment. Create a business plan of mineral production you will do after finishing secondary school level.
End unit assessment
1. To what extent is mining a significant sector in the development of the economy of Rwanda?
2. Assess the impact of mining methods used in Rwanda to the environment.
3. Suggest environmentally friendly methods of mining that should be used by mining companies in Rwanda.
11.3. POWER AND ENERGY IN RWANDA
Key Unit competence: The student-teacher should be able to investigate the impact of Power and Energy production on the sustainable development in Rwanda.
Introductory Activity
Study the following image of energy and answer questions that follow:
1. Identify the major sources of energy used in Rwanda.
2. Classify the sources as either renewable or non-renewable.
3. Analyze the effects of energy exploitation to the economic development of Rwanda
11.3.1. Major sources, forms of energy and importance of energy in Rwanda
Learning activity 11.3.1
In her home, Mahirwe watches the television, she cooks by using gas cooker, because firewood is not friendly to the environment.
1. Identify other sources of energy not mentioned in the passage above.
2. What is the importance of power and energy in Mahirwe’s family?
i) Major sources and forms of energy used in Rwanda
Power is the capacity to change or do things whereas energy refers to any source of usable power. The sources of energy used in Rwanda include; wind, hydroelectric power, solar, natural gas, biogas and petrol. With respect to renewability, sources of energy may be divided into: renewable and non-renewable energy.
a) Renewable sources of energy
These are sources of energy that cannot be exhausted. They have the capacity of refilling themselves after being used. The production of such energy is endless because the energy is regenerated naturally.
Renewable energy is also called ‘Clean Energy or ‘Green Power’ because it does not harm the environment by causing pollution. Many forms do not emit any greenhouse gases or toxic waste in their process of producing electricity. It makes the less impact on the environment than our current convectional energy source.
In Rwanda, the renewable sources of energy that are in use include the ones listed below.
• Water (Hydroelectric power): It can be generated where there is water flowing such as in the permanent rivers of Rwanda. It is generated by water of river at the falls were dams are installed.
• Solar energy: It is generated by sun’s rays that reach the solar boards which convert them in electricity. It is the renewable, cheap and clean power without pollution. It is relatively simple to operate and maintain.
• Wind energy: It is generated using wind or moving air.It comes from wind turbines that run with the force of wind speed. Some of them are installed on mount Jali.
• Biogas: It is a gas generated from human and livestock wastes as well as biodegradable household wastes. Biogas in Rwanda is used in prisons, schools, hospitals and some homesteads for cooking and lightning.
• Biomass: This is got from woods.
• Geothermal: This will be generated using the hot springs and geysers found in the volcanic areas. b) Non –renewable sources of energy They are exhaustible sources; they cannot be replaced when exhausted. Examples: coal, natural gas, oil, firewood.
• Peat coal: Peat is an organic black deposit composed of the remaining parts of plants that are partially decomposed due to poor drainage. It is formed in many swamps of Rwanda: Akagera, Akanyaru, Nyabarongo, Mugesera, and Gishoma swamps.
• Firewood and charcoal: They are mostly used in Rwanda by people over 90% for cooking. Firewood is also used by different tea factories and Kabuye sugar factory.
• Petroleum: Rwanda does not produce it but it is imported from Middle East in Asia through Mombasa and Dar-essalaam ports. Rwanda uses refine petroleum (diesel, petrol, kerosene) for transport, lightening at home and for generation of electricity.
ii) Importance of power in the development of Rwanda.
• Power is important for domestic uses hence raising the standards of living of the people.
• Power is important in the development of industry. Most industries use electricity and petroleum to run engines in the industries.
• Petroleum is used to run vehicles hence facilitating transport systems in the country.
• Petroleum and electricity are often used to run water pumps and other agricultural machinery.
• Electricity contributes a lot in running activities in schools, hospitals and printing industries.
• Power contributes to the growth and development of urban centres.
• Power contributes to the development of trade and commerce by facilitating the operations of the various businesses.
• The availability of power helps in making an area a potential tourist attraction centre.
Application activity 11.3.1
In Rwanda there are many sources of energy like solar, oil fuel, biogas, hydro-electric energy that are used in our daily activities:
1. Explain why hydroelectric power is mostly used than other source of energy.
2. Analyse the advantages of oil fuel over solar energy
11.3.2. Problems hindering the development of energy and their possible solutions.
Learning activity 11.3.2
Make a research: Outline the problems encountered in power production and suggest ways to improve energy production in Rwanda.
i) Problems hindering the development of energy
Poor economy of people: This has limited the market for power and energy since a large proportion of the population is not economically empowered to pay energy.
Illiteracy: Due to illiteracy, part of the rural population in the country is hesitant to use electricity.
Climatic changes: Much of Rwanda still uses hydroelectric power which depends on the availability of water in the rivers. When there is drought the production of electricity is affected.
The break-down of facilities: Due to poor technology, sometimes breakdown of machines disrupts power generation and distribution.
Unskilled labour: Sometimes, the country has to depend on expatriate expertise. This causes delays and is also expensive raising the cost of power production.
Lack of adequate capital: Setting up of power stations is a very capital intensive venture. The capital needed is usually not readily available because of other competing needs.
Limited alternative sources of power: Due to the use and dependence on hydro-electricity, the other alternative sources of energy have not been developed. This creates a power shortage in the country whenever it fails.
Limited research: Research is very important in harnessing power. The ability and resources to research further on hydroelectricity power production as well as in other alternative sources of energy is limited.
Inaccessibility of some areas that are power potential sites: Due to the hilly and mountainous terrain of the country, it is difficult to construct roads and other infrastructure. This limits access to other areas that are power generation potential sites.
Silting and flooding: majority of the rivers in Rwanda carry a lot of eroded materials from the mountainous areas. They end up depositing a lot of silt and mud on their river beds. The silt may interfere with the generation of power.
ii) Possible solutions to the problems affecting power and energy production in Rwanda
• Use of diversified sources of energy: In many areas of Rwanda, homesteads have been connected to renewable power such as solar energy. This mostly works in rural areas and in urban areas as an alternative to hydroelectric power.
• Efficient transmission and distribution of power: This has been one of the government’s top agenda. It has been implemented through the rural electrification programme that has assisted many homes to have power.
• Emphasise on the use of renewable energy: Both the government and private sector in Rwanda emphasise on the need to use renewable energy sources such as wind and solar energy.
• Construction of more power plants: The construction and establishment of more power stations especially hydroelectric power stations will help in boosting power production in the country.
• Training human resource: The government should commit itself in training more people in power and energy specific courses. These people will help in providing the much needed expertise in the energy sector.
• Creation of buffer areas around power stations: The creation of protected areas and buffer zones of 50 metres around water bodies and power stations will assist in reducing the silting of dams and power stations in the country.
• Affordable prices: The government together with other parties involved in the production of power and energy should device a fair power pricing system. This will make power affordable and available to all.
• Environmental assessment reports: There should be serious environmental assessment studies carried out before and during the power production periods. This will help to prevent environmental hazards beforehand.
Application activity 11.3.1
To what extent is the presence of waterfalls responsible for the development of power and energy production in Rwanda?
Skills lab
In Rwanda there are many sources of energy. Introduce any source of energy that is friendly to the environment.
End unit assessment
1. Imagine, if the oil supply gets exhausted one day, how would this affect our life style?
2. Explain why the government of Rwanda advocates for transmission and distribution of power and energy to rural areas. 3. Describe the effects of power generating stations and operation on the environment
4. Suggest ways in which the government will cope with the increasing demand for power with the increasing population 5. There is much energy which is not well exploited, highlight the factors affecting oil fuel production in Rwanda.
11.4. INDUSTRIALISATION IN RWANDA
Key Unit competence: The student-teacher should be able to explain the impact of industrialization on the sustainable development in Rwanda
Introductory Activity
Work in pairs, study the flow chart below and use it to answer the questions that follow.
X
1. Name the process that the flow chart represents.
2. Describe the process represented by the flow chart.
3. What is represented by X and why is it important?
4. Name at least two areas in Rwanda where the processes shown in the flow chart are carried out.
11.4.1. Industry and factors affecting the location of industries in Rwanda
Learning activity 11.4.1
With reference to the statement” Inyange industry ltd is located in Masaka sector, Kicukiro district “ answer the following questions:
1. To which category of industry does Inyange industry belong to?
2. Find out the factors that influenced its location.
3. Identify and explain the factors that affect the development of the industry.
i) Definitions
Industry is defined as an establishment set up to process and transforms complex, simple and ordinary raw materials to either semi-finished or finished materials.
Industrialization refers to the concentration of industries in an area; it also refers to the process concerned with the mechanical or chemical transformation of inorganic and organic substances into new products. It is the process that transforms raw materials into new products.
Industrialisation in Rwanda takes place in a very low scale when compared to other countries such as Kenya and Uganda. The government of Rwanda is working hard to turn the economy from being predominantly agrarian to a more industrialised one.
However, the challenges of limited natural resources such as minerals and the fact that the country is landlocked slow down the industrialisation process. Most of the industries in Rwanda are agro-based with a few manufacturing industries found in urban centres especially Kigali.
ii) Factors affecting the location of industries in Rwanda
Industries in Rwanda are located in different places. There are factors that affect their locations. They include the following.
• Availability of raw materials: In determining the location of an industry, closeness to sources of raw materials is of vital importance. This reduces the cost of production and increases the profit margins of the company.
• Transport and communication facilities: Industries are usually located near transport and communication facilities in order to easily transport raw materials and finished goods to and from the industries.
• Availability of power and other energy sources: Most industries in Rwanda are located near sources of energy and power, such as areas in Kigali city.
• Proximity to markets: Most industries in Rwanda are located in areas where there is already market for their products.
• Government policies: The Rwandan government has demarcated areas for industries through the Rwanda Development Board.
• Availability of labour: Industries that are labour intensive in Rwanda are located in areas where there is assurance of a steady supply of labour. This is possible in areas that are densely populated such as Kigali, Musanze and Masaka areas.
• Availability of land: This has a great influence in the location of industries in Rwanda. Industries that require large pieces of land have to be established in areas where there is available land.
• Availability of water: Industries that need to use a lot of water are usually located near water sources. Water is a raw material for some industries, acts as a cooling agent in some industries and is sometimes used to transport raw materials and finished products to the market centres.
• Investors’ preferences: Industries may be located in specific areas due to the investor’s personal preferences. • Proximity to aids to trade: Industries in Rwanda are located near areas where aids of trade such as banking and insurance services are available.
• Industrial inertia: Investors would want to establish new industries in areas where other industries were located This is due to the advantages of already established infrastructure and other public utilities that can be of help to the industry.
• Climate: There are some industries in Rwanda that are located in given areas due to favourable climatic conditions. Examples of these industries are agro-based industries such as tea processing factories that are located in areas where climate is favourable for the growth of tea.
• Relief: Most of the industries in Rwanda are located in lowland areas where the landscape favours easy construction of industrial infrastructure.
Application activity 11.3.1
1. Differentiate industry from industrialization.
2. Visit any industry near your home or school and examine the factors that led to its location.
11.4.2. The importance, Problems affecting industrial development and their solutions in Rwanda
Learning activity 11.4.2
Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow.
Nyirangarama, Rwanda (CNN) — A maverick entrepreneur and selfmade millionaire, Sina Gerard is probably Rwanda’s most famous businessman. Having established a business empire from the bottom up, he’s now training local farmers to help make Rwanda an agricultural exporter.
“My aim is to make sure that the Rwandan people build themselves and get out of poverty,” he says. “My aim is to make sure Rwandan farmers, because they are rated at 90%, feel proud to be farmers. I’m sure I’ll achieve it because so far I have achieved a lot.”
There are no doubts to Gerard’s achievements. Twenty-five years ago he had just one employee, who helped him sell the bread he baked at his parents’ farm. Now, Gerard says he employs hundreds of workers and buys produce from thousands of farmers. Source: CNN’s Marketplace Africa.
1. Identify and explain the importance of industries that are mentioned in the extract.
2. Describe the likely problems facing NyirangaramaEntreprise
3. Suggest possible solutions to the industries in Rwanda
i) Importance of industries
Industrialisation is among the most significant sectors that faster modernisation. This is due to the following reasons.
• Employment opportunities: Industries create varied employment opportunities to the people thereby reducing the problem of unemployment and underemployment in the country.
• Provision of products needed by the society: The agro-based industries in Rwanda such as the Inyange and Urwibutso agro industries provide products that satisfy the needs and wants of the people.
• Source of foreign exchange: The government of Rwanda is able to earn foreign exchange from the export of products from the industrial sector. This assists the government to stabilise its balance of trade.
• Improved standards of living: The industries enable the population of Rwanda to improve their standards of living. They provide processed food stuffs and other materials for use in the day to day life of the Rwandan people.
• Diversification of the Rwandan economy: Industrial development in Rwanda has provided an alternative source of revenue to the economy of the country. This has helped to reduce overdependence on primary products whose prices fluctuate from time to time.
• Growth of infrastructure: Rapid industrial growth has resulted in the expansion of infrastructural facilities. The development of modern industries in Rwanda has stimulated the growth of the banking, insurance, commerce, air and road transport services to industrialise the economy.
• Research and development: Creativity and innovation define Rwanda’s industrial sector. Constant research ensures that the sector is up to speed with advances in technology that are needed for further growth and development. This is aimed at producing quality goods and services.
ii) Problems affecting industrial development
Some of the problems affecting industrial development in Rwanda include the following:
• There is a shortage of skilled labour. This results in reduced production and poor utilisation of resources.
• There is limited market for products from industries because of the low income of most Rwandans.
• The technical development in Rwanda is still low. This affects the quality of industrial products.
• There is inadequate supply of raw materials especially those needed in metal work industries. These raw materials have to be imported making them expensive beyond the reach of many Rwandan citizens.
• Rwanda is a landlocked country. This poses a great challenge to industrialisation since it has to depend on the delivery of raw materials from other countries.
• Rwanda faces stiff competition in the international market from other industrial countries like Kenya and Uganda in the region.
• There is limited investment in the industrial sector as a result of insufficient capital required to put up and operate industries.
• The education system of Rwanda has been theoretical only equipping learners with knowledge without the skills required in the job market. This has resulted in a shortage of technical industrial skills.
• There are limited raw materials to be used in the manufacturing of different products.
iii) Solutions to problems faced by industries in Rwanda
There are several solutions to address the problems affecting industries in Rwanda. They include the following.
• Improving the transport and communication network in the country through construction of new roads and rehabilitation of the existing ones.
• Encouraging more investors, both foreign and local to invest more capital, and use managerial skills in the sector. This will ensure smooth running of industrial activities.
• Training of more human resources in different industrial jobs such as communication and marketing. This will help to deal with the problem of shortage of labour.
• Cooperating with major development partners such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank to provide credit facilities so as to address the problem of inadequate capital.
• Widening both the local and international markets through joining economic blocs such as the East African Community (EAC) and Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
• Improving technology in order to produce high quality goods which can attract high demand in both the local and foreign markets. (g) Importation of raw materials which are not found in Rwanda in order to sustain production.
• The government should design policies that encourage the establishment of local industries and protect them from external competition.
• The Made in Rwanda Policy is a holistic roadmap aimed at increasing economic competitiveness by enhancing Rwanda’s domestic market through value chain development. It does so through two channels: firstly, it brings together existing government interventions under a clear policy framework; secondly, it addresses supply-side bottlenecks via targeted interventions aimed at deepening specific high potential value chains, improving quality, and boosting cost competitiveness. The Policy has five main pillars:
1. Sector Specific Strategies
2. Reducing the Cost of Production
3. Improving Quality
4. Promoting Backward Linkages
5. Mind-Set Change
Application activity 11.4.2
Explain with supporting evidences how Made in Rwanda policy is one of the solutions to the problems that affect industrial development of Rwanda.
11.4.3. Environmental and health issues associated with industrialization and ways to mitigate them
Learning activity 11.4.3
Using the Internet and other geographical documents
1. Find out the impact of industrialization on the environment and on human life.
2. Suggest ways in which the effects of industrialization can be addressed and their negative impacts reduced.
i) Impacts of industrialization in Rwanda
Industrialization has had several impacts on the environment and on human health. Some of the impacts are discussed below.
• Industries emit poisonous gases and smoke that pollute the atmosphere. This affects the environment, creating micro climates and endangering the lives of people and animals.
• The establishment of industrial infrastructure requires vast amounts of land. This means that the preparation of sites requires the removal of vegetation in readiness for construction.
• Industries that deal with forests, mining and processing, destroy the environment because they use up the scarce natural resources available.
• The industrial waste products are sometimes improperly disposed. This makes it hard to find clean water for domestic consumption especially
in areas that are near the industries. The effluents also destroy aquatic
life.
• The raw materials used in industries are sometimes from the environment in areas such as forests, water bodies and land. The exploitation of these materials has had negative effects on the environment.
• There are diseases that have come up as a result of the establishment of industries.
• Industrialisation in Rwanda has caused rural urban migration. Many people leave the rural areas to go to urban centres to work in industries that are found in the urban areas.
• There are accidents that occur in industries which have caused the loss of many lives.
• Some industries produce goods that are harmful to the lives of people.
ii) The mitigation of the environmental and health issues associated with industrialisation in Rwanda
There are various mitigation measures that the government has put in place to address the environmental and health issues that are related to industrialisation. They include the following.
• The government has designed various policies that aim at protecting the environment and people against the negative effects of industries.
• The government has put in place the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirement before the establishment of any industry.
• The government has set up new industrial areas such as the Free Trade Zone at Ndera, the Masaka region and the new huge industrial region in Gashora, Bugesera district.
• There are standards that have been put in place that the industrialists have to follow. These are safety standards to ensure that the working conditions do not endanger the lives of the workers and the communities around.
• There is emphasis put on chemical neutralisation of the industrial wastes that could cause serious problems. This aims at reducing the toxicity of the industrial wastes.
• Rwanda has demarcated areas to be disposal sites. These sites are located far away from homes and are relatively protected as secure hazardous waste disposal sites.
Application activity 11.4.1
In a field visit to one of the industries in the country, observe and find out the following;
1. The effects of the industry on the environment and on human health.
2. Suggest ways to mitigate the impacts highlighted in the above question.
Skills lab
Industrialization is one of the pillars of development. Identify your contribution to the new brand of Made in Rwanda.
End unit assessment
1. Give five reasons why industries are important in Rwanda.
2. a) Discuss five problems that affect industrial development in Rwanda.
b)Provide the solutions to the problems listed in (a) above.
3. Explain three environmental issues associated with industrialization in Rwanda.
11.5. TOURISM IN RWANDA
Key Unit competence: The student-teacher should be able to investigate the impact of environmental conservation and tourism on the sustainable development of Rwanda.
Introductory Activity
Kwita Izina is an annual baby gorilla naming ceremony aimed to raise awareness on the conservation of mountain gorilla, promote Rwanda, and empower local communities of the volcanoes national park. Since 2005 the government of Rwanda through RDB and other conservation partners celebrates the event.
1. Explain the relationship between environmental conservation and tourism.
2. Explain why Rwanda celebrate annually Kwita Izina event.
11.5.1. Forms of tourism, major tourist attractions and factors influencing tourism in Rwanda.
Learning activity 11.5.1
Now days the government of Rwanda is empowering the tourism sector to boost its economy. The country put forward an advertising campaign of “Tembera u Rwanda” and “visit Rwanda” aiming at encouraging local people and foreigners to explore more the beauty of the country. The campaign is not only about tourism but it shows Rwanda as a good place to do business as well.
1. What do you understand by “tourism”?
2. Outline the major national parks in Rwanda.
3. Identify the major tourist attraction in Rwanda.
i) Definition
Tourism refers to travel for recreation, leisure, religious, family or business purposes usually for a limited duration. Tourism may be practised outside one’s country or domestically within the confines of one’s country.
Ecotourism is a better way of doing tourism without destroying the environment.This means that ecotourism attempts to minimize the impact of tourism upon the environment and is ecologically sound, and prevents the negative impacts of many large-scale tourism developments undertaken in the areas which have not previously been developed.
ii) Forms of tourism
Forms of tourism refer to the types of tourism. There are two main types or forms of tourism:
Domestic tourism and International tourism.
Domestic tourism involves visiting places that are located within the borders of one’s country for pleasure, relaxation, study or research. This is known as domestic tourism.
When tourists come from Europe to tour Rwanda, this is known as international tourism. Their travel involves crossing of international borders to reach Rwanda. The citizens of Rwanda also get involved in international tourism when they tour other countries.
iii) Major tourist attractions in Rwanda
Rwanda is blessed with a wide range of tourist attractions. They include the following:
• Wild animals: These include mountain gorillas, elephants, hippos, giraffes, monkeys, buffaloes and lions. The animals are protected in the national parks and game reserve such as the Birunga National Park, the Akagera National Park, and Nyungwe Forest Park.
• Mountains and hills: Rwanda has various mountains and rolling hills that make it a land of thousand hills at the heart of Africa.
• Vegetation: Forests like Nyungwe, Gishwati forest, and the savanna woodlands of the Akagera are parts of the vegetation that are attractions in Rwanda.
• Water bodies: Lakes such as Lakes kivu, Burera, Ruhondo, Mugesera, Muhazi and Ihema. These water bodies provide beautiful sceneries that attract tourists.
• Hot springs: Rwanda has other tourist attractions that are associated with vulcanicity. Among them are the hot springs in Rusizi and Rubavu districts.
• Beaches: There are beaches next to the Rwandan lakes. The beaches offer excellent sites for relaxation. There are common along the shores of lake kivu in Rubavu, lake Muhazi, and around lake Rumira in Bugesera.
• Caves:Musanze and Busasamana caves in Musanze and Rubavu respectively. Busasamana caves of Rubavu are associated with volcanic eruptions that took place longtime ago.
• Historical sites: They include the Nyanza king’s palace which was the headquarters of the traditional kingdom in Nyanza district, the burial place of the traditional kings in Gicumbi district and Urutare rwa Ndaba in Karongi district.
iv) Factors affecting the development of tourism in Rwanda
There are several factors that affect the development of tourism in Rwanda. They include the following.
• Political stability: Rwanda has experienced long peaceful period since 1994. This has enabled foreign tourists to travel to the country without fear of insecurity.
• Existence of varied tourist attractions: The many museums with unique information and the beautiful countryside are of the attraction, another example is mountain gorilla which is rare elsewhere.
• Gorilla naming ceremony: This ceremony is a special tourist attraction. Every year, Rwanda holds a gorilla naming ceremony which attracts many local and foreign tourists.
• Publicity and advertisement locally and abroad: The government carries out campaigns both locally and abroad creating awareness on the tourist attractions in the country.
• Development of tourist hotels: The government and private organization have constructed class hotels and lodges in different parts of the country near tourist attractions.
• Friendly people: The people of Rwanda are friendly. The hospitality of Rwanda people encourages more people to visit the country.
• Favourable government policies towards tourism.
• Historical and cultural factors that contribute to the development of tourism
Application activity 11.5.1
1. Identify major features that attract tourists in Rwanda.
2. Differentiate Eco-tourism from tourism.
11.5.2. Impact of tourism, Problems affecting the tourism in Rwanda and the solutions
Learning activity 11.5.3
1. Identify the importance of tourism in Rwanda.
2. Describe at least 4 problems affecting tourism sector in Rwanda.
i) Importance of tourism on sustainable development of Rwanda
• It provides potential market for industrial produce as well as local market produce.
• It facilitates the improvement of infrastructures, more especially roads, schools, hospitals, cultural centres.
• It provides employment opportunities due to high demand for cooks, hotel personnel, administrative staff, drivers, guides and game rangers.
• It contributes to the appreciation of local culture (cultural dances and music) and various historical sites such Kings Palace,Museums, etc.
• It is a source of foreign exchange which can be used for buying imports and developing other sectors of the economy.
• The entrance fees to game parks helps to ensure the conservation of the environment especially wild game (fauna) and natural vegetation (flora).
• Tourism leads to expansion of local handcraft industry because foreign holiday makers buy large amount of baskets (uduseke) and wood carvings.
• Tourism leads to improvement in international relations between Rwanda and other countries.
ii) Problems affecting the tourism in Rwanda
There are many problems that affect the development of tourism in Rwanda. They include the following:
• High population: Increase in human population has led to human encroachment on the tourist attraction sites destroying the natural habitats for wildlife.
• Lack of a skilled labour force: Lack of skilled and trained workers in various tourist centres affects the quality of service offered.
• Lack of participation in tourism by the locals: There is lack of interest within the local population that is ignorant on the tourist attractions in the country.
• Inadequate social facilities: There are inadequate social facilities such as hospitals, sports and other recreational facilities in areas containing tourist attractions.
• Poor technology: The level of technological development of the country is still very low. This affects the development and growth of tourism industry.
• Poaching: Illegal poaching has led to the diminishing numbers of wild game.
• Lack of information on the importance of tourism: There is lack of awareness on the importance of tourism among the local communities.
• Poor transport and communication: Most of the areas of importance to tourism are situated in remote areas where roads are non-existent or impassable during the rainy seasons.
iii) Future prospects of tourism in the country
• The government plans to develop other products that can attract more tourists to Rwanda.
• The Rwandan government plans to intensify marketing and awareness of the resources found in the country.
• The country intends to increase the number of skilled and professional personnel in the sector through training.
• There are more plans to involve the local communities who live near tourist attractions in the management of the sites.
• There are plans to open up the country more through increased development of transport infrastructure.
• There are plans to review the current framework of regulations so that laws are established to facilitate sustainable growth and development of the tourism sector in the country.
• The investors willing to develop businesses in the sector will receive full support from the government.
• There are plans to put more emphasis on the importance of eco-tourism and environmental sustainability for the future generations.
Application activity 11.5.1
1. Analyse the major problems hindering tourism industry in Rwanda.
2. Explain what should be done to promote local tourism?
3. Assess the contribution of tourism in the development of the country.
Skills lab
Carry out a field visit in your local community to discover and explore new tourist attraction.
End unit assessment
1. Identify the importance of environment conservation in tourism.
2. Explain the role of advertisement in tourism sector.
3. Analyze any 3 measures put forward by the government of Rwanda to improve the tourism industry in Rwanda.
4. Poaching is one of the major challenges in tourism and environment conservation.
a) What does poaching mean?
b) Why do people poach?
c) Suggest possible solutions to poaching.