Wetland Vulnerability Analysis in the Upper Nyabarongo River

Wetlands provide crucial ecosystem services such as water purification, flood control, and biodiversity support, yet they face growing vulnerability due to human activities and climate change. This study focuses on the wetland ecosystems in the Upper Nyabarongo River in Rwanda, which are increasingly at risk from disasters such as floods, landslides, and erosion. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing techniques, the research investigates the factors contributing to wetland degradation and evaluates the key ecosystem services these wetlands provide. Various environmental indices—such as the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI)—are employed to assess the environmental pressures on these ecosystems. The results categorize wetland vulnerability into five levels: very high, high, medium, low, and very low, with urban and suburban areas experiencing the highest vulnerability. The findings highlight significant threats from human-induced pressures and climate impacts, underscoring the urgent need for effective conservation strategies. Ultimately, this study aims to enhance regional biodiversity, reduce disaster risks, and promote the sustainability and resilience of wetland ecosystems in the face of environmental change