Abstract

This paper examines the effects of deforestation and its associated consequences as a result of demographic pressure in Rwanda. It came out that demographic pressure led to forest clearance and  biodiversity disturbances in general, thereby leading to climate change. Using over 30 and 80 years of climatic variables and demographic data respectively, the analysis of the output of ORIGIN PRO 8.0 showed that the population has increased 4 times in the period of 80 years and this in turn has affected the environment. The forest ecosystems, which occupied 30% of the total surface of the country in 1930  has been reduced to 8.9%  as by the year 2000. This severe loss of forests has remarkably led to more than 90% decline of fauna species in Akagera National Park. The analysis of  deforestation has revealed some associated consequences on regulating services where a monthly increase of 0.5°C and a monthly decrease of 10 mm in rainfall has been remarked in the study period of 1970 to 2010. Finally, this study suggests the State to put in place tight mechanisms to control the population growth for the attainment of sustainable environmental development and reinforce management of ecosystems so as to inherit an enjoyable and productive environment to the future generations.

Key words: Deforestation, demographic pressure, climate change, Rwanda.