Abstract: This study examined community perceptions and participation in mine environmental rehabilitation programs at Trinity Nyakabingo Mines in Rulindo District, Rwanda. Mining activities in the area have created both socio-economic benefits and environmental challenges for surrounding communities, yet limited evidence existed on how local residents understand and engage in rehabilitation initiatives. The study aimed to assess community knowledge and perceptions of mine rehabilitation programs, identify factors influencing participation, and examine the relationship between community knowledge and participation. A descriptive cross-sectional design using mixed methods was employed. The study targeted 18,151 households surrounding the mining area, from which 391 respondents were selected using Yamane’s formula. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including binary logistic regression and linear regression in IBM SPSS Statistics. Qualitative data from focus group discussions were analyzed thematically to support and triangulate quantitative findings. Results showed that while 70.6% of respondents were aware of rehabilitation programs, only 28.7% demonstrated good or very good knowledge. Respondents acknowledged significant environmental degradation caused by mining activities, whereas perceptions regarding the effectiveness and inclusiveness of rehabilitation programs were mixed. Participation in rehabilitation activities was relatively high at 62.1%, although 37.9% of respondents had never participated. The findings further revealed that socio-economic benefits, motivational factors, and institutional support significantly increased participation in rehabilitation programs, while barriers reduced community involvement. In addition, a statistically significant positive relationship was found between community knowledge and participation, indicating that increased awareness and understanding enhanced engagement in rehabilitation activities. The study concludes that strengthening community knowledge, improving institutional support, and promoting inclusive participation mechanisms are essential for enhancing community engagement and ensuring sustainable and effective mine rehabilitation programs in Rwanda.
Keywords: Community Perceptions, Mine, Environmental Rehabilitation, Trinity Nyakabingo Mines, Rwanda.
Title: Community Perceptions and Participation in Mine Environmental Rehabilitation Programs: A Case Study of Trinity Nyakabingo Mines in Rulindo District, Rwanda
Author: NKUNDABATWARE Frank, Runyambo Irakiza
International Journal of Life Sciences Research
ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)
Vol. 14, Issue 2, April 2026 - June 2026
Page No: 38-51
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 04-June-2026
