Assessment of the Rweru Bugesera Wetlands complex is part of case studies commissioned by the Nile Basin Initiative in a broader Wetlands Management Strategy of the regional body. As expressed in the Terms of Reference for the case study, the purpose is to bring the multiple economic values related to ecosystems into the wetland management process. But it certainly serves several other purposes. The first is identification of the different ecosystem services of the underrated values of wetlands. They are not only the ‘supermarkets of the wilds’ but also the ‘kidneys of the landscape’ when regulation services are considered. Valuations also serve to show how investments in conservation or wise use – wetlands management are worth it. Meanwhile the general objective of the study is to conduct economic valuation of biodiversity and ecosystem services of the Rweru Bugesera Wetland Complex.
The latter valuation of the wetlands complex is important in light of possible onsite (in-situ) and offsite (ex-situ) development interventions.
Specific objectives include:
1. To investigate beneficiaries of case study wetland generated economic benefits
2. To determine the current value of case study wetland biodiversity and ecosystem services
3. To determine the economic impact of case study wetland degradation and loss
4. To determine the value added or costs of investing in case study conservation and wise use
The motivation of the case study is to bring economic value of wetlands and
water related ecosystem services into the integrated wetland management and overall river planning and development decision-making.