This study aimed at estimating the value and benefits of the projects that were funded by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) through the revenue sharing program around Nyungwe National Park (NNP) for its conservation. To achieve the study objectives, a cross sectional research design was used, combined with a qualitative and quantitative approach. Primary data was collected from community members living around Nyungwe National Park, community leaders and RDB staff through questionnaires and interviews. Microsoft Excel was used for the data analysis. Results showed that the revenues contributed to community development through the construction of infrastructures that are used by communities around NNP. But, lack of regular monitoring has also resulted in the failure of some projects. We realized that the value of revenue sharing (RS) projects plus the value of ecosystem services from Nyungwe are a golden opportunity for local communities to have access to finance and improved livelihoods. We realized that through Revenue Sharing Program RwF 649,186,778 were invested in infrastructures around (NNP) since 2005. Looking at their impact value after one year, we realized that actual net profit provided by them is valued to RwF 66,789,571. The impact value in 20 years from those infrastructures was estimated to RwF 14,319,526,980. It is recommended that RDB increase the revenue sharing funding and include a special guarantee fund to support a framework for integrated biodiversity conservation and human well-being.
Keywords: Livelihoods, human security issues, indicators
