Factors driving utilization patterns of marshlands in the vicinity of South-Kivu urban agglomerations based on Rapid Assessment of Wetland Ecosystem Services (RAWES)

Abstract

Marshlands are one of the most vulnerable ecosystems; being disturbed for several decades as the population density rises. These disturbances, due to anthropogenic activities, impact their ability to deliver important ecosystem services (ES). In this study, we analyzed the current state of marshes in the vicinity of South-Kivu urban agglomerations, in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Factors driving the utilization patterns of marshlands were also assessed in four selected marshes (Muku, Hogola, Chisheke, and Mudaka). The used methodology combined both analyses of satellite images and household surveys. Results showed that marshes' ecosystem utilization patterns in South-Kivu comprised of unsustainable farming practices, clay extraction for brick making, dwelling and settlement expansion, and aquaculture for fish production. The factors driving these utilization patterns combined both bio-physical and household socioeconomic characteristics. These include mainly reinforcement of restrictions for marshland use, the household head's age, income, and household size. Besides, the perception of marshes as wastelands is another driving factor on how people value and use marshlands in South-Kivu. These driving factors are to be considered in ensuring and maintaining marshland functions and ecosystem services (ES) to local communities that highly depend on marshes for livelihoods. As the population density increases substantially in the region, the demand for utilization patterns of marshlands for agriculture, aquaculture, brick making, and settlement and dwellings are also expected to increase in the near future. Therefore, both local communities and decision-makers should be involved in designing sustainable utilizations and conservation options to durably improve livelihoods of populations around these ecosystems.