The former dwellers in Gishwati forest urge concerned bodies to pay them the amount equivalent to two billion Rwf. This amount is an expropriation fee meant to be paid to them since they left the forest. The re-location was in due to protect the natural forest that was spoiled by the human activities such as animal breeding, agriculture, etc.
At the time when President Kagame visited the Nyabihu District in May 201, he urged the concerned authorities to deal with the payment of the fees not later than one month that followed his visit but the situation did not improve since then.
As time passes, the hope for the resolution of the issue goes weaker and weaker, locals told UM– USEKE.
One of the concerned people whose name is kept anonymous told UM– USEKE that not only the fees delayed but also the financial value of the properties is not equivalent to the real value of the properties themselves.
He however wishes that the little amount they deserve should be given them at least.
Eng Didier Sagashya, deputy chief in charge of land management and mapping in the Rwanda Natural Resources Authority said that the challenge resulted from the fact two billion Rwf is a huge amount that can’t be found easily but promised that the issue is soon to be resolved as the amount has been inserted into this year’s budget.
The Gishwati natural forest was threatened by the human activities caused by the refugees who practiced the intense animal breeding especially cows which reduced the fauna and the flora of the forests .
This natural forest hosts as diverse animal such as chimpanzee, snakes and exotic birds, among others.
UM– USEKE.RW
