Towards Urban Forest Restoration in the City of Bukavu, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo: Residents' Perceptions

Abstract

Purpose: Demographic explosion is a common phenomenon in the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially in the city of Bukavu, where more than 1.6 million inhabitants live in 60 km², following the rural exodus due to insecurity in rural areas. This situation has led to deforestation, resulting in the destruction of most of the old green spaces, exposing the city to higher risks of flooding, erosion, landslides and loss of biodiversity, among other environmental problems. This study aims to understand the population's perception of deforestation in Bukavu, and to inform policy makers on how to restore urban forests. Methodology: To collect data for this study, we sampled and interviewed 210 informants, with 70 informants in each of the three communes of Bukavu: Kadutu, Ibanda and Bagira. Findings: The vast majority of informants are in favor of restoring green spaces (85%). At least 72.9% of them recognize that green spaces are important for air purification, environmental improvement, ornamentation, erosion control, biodiversity conservation and food production (in the case of fruit trees). They agree that the vegetation cover has decreased, especially since the 2000s, mainly due to the rural exodus and unregulated housing construction (81.9%). The population is aware that they are the main beneficiaries of green spaces (87.1% of informants) and accuse the government of being the main destroyer of green spaces and that it should be the main actor in their restoration. At the same time, residents recognize their share of responsibility for the destruction and restoration of urban green spaces, but consider it to be less than that of the government. In order to restore green spaces, they suggested tree planting initiatives (51.7%), with a preference for Eucalyptus sp., Cupressus lusitanica, ornamental and medicinal trees. Awareness raising and planned urbanization are among the strategies proposed to restore these spaces. A unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The results of this study pave the way for a multidimensional understanding of climate adaptation, and demonstrate the need for a collective awakening of all stakeholders and the full mobilization of all actors in the quest to restore green spaces in the city of Bukavu for a healthier environment.