Research Internship

During my involvement in the project titled “Differences in the Formation and Development of Informal Settlements and Their Effects on Residents’ Health and Safety,” my primary responsibility was conducting focus group discussions in both informal and formal settlements. These discussions involved engaging with landlords and tenants residing in these settlements to gather valuable insights and firsthand experiences,

By interacting directly with the landlords and tenants, I was able to gather diverse perspectives on the challenges, living conditions, and specific issues faced by individuals in both types of settlements. The firsthand accounts shared by landlords and tenants shed light on the challenges faced by individuals living in informal & formal settlements and emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to improve the overall well-being of residents.

It was such a good experience and formative regarding how people or residents consider government’s plans for them in developing and upgrading the informal settlements.

Participating in the research project concerning Variations in the establishment and growth of informal settlements and their influence on the health and safety of residents alongside my colleagues from the Medical College of Wisconsin, was an extraordinary experience. Our exploration took us to two vibrant communities, Mpazi and Busanza, where we engaged in enlightening focus group discussions with the residents. The genuine warmth and openness of the people we met were truly heartening, and they willingly shared their experiences and insights, enriching our research in immeasurable ways. Witnessing the challenges and triumphs of these communities firsthand deepened our understanding of the impact of informal settlements on residents’ well-being. This collaborative journey not only strengthened our team’s bonds but also left us with a profound sense of fulfillment, knowing that our work could contribute positively to the lives of others.

In the summer of 2023, I had the opportunity to work with the CDP as my preceptorship site to finish my masters in Global Health Equity at the Medical College of Wisconsin. With the partnership between MCW and CDP we conducted qualitative research with individuals serving as landlords, living in informal settlements, and those who have been upgraded to formal settlement housing. Focus group interviews facilitated discussions surrounding the quality of living, health, the issues landlords and tenants were experiencing, and the availability of services. This opportunity allowed me to work on an important topic to global health research that I am passionate about. Dr. Kadozi, Bertrand, and Christine were wonderful and welcoming mentors. My time in Rwanda was thought provoking and important to my professional development. I hope that I continue to have the opportunity to work with this organization on urban development. 

I am very grateful for the opportunity I had to participate in the Informal Settlement Research Project with CDP. Dr. Edward Kadozi was an exceptional mentor, creating a supportive environment where we could freely express our opinions while providing guidance. Collaborating with Christine and Bertrand was also a pleasure. They consistently offered their assistance in translation and helped us grasp the intricacies of the local culture. Thanks to their invaluable support, I gained a profound comprehension of Rwandan culture and acquired knowledge about the history of Kigali. 

Additionally, by engaging in discussions with individuals residing in informal settlements, I was able to better understand the profound impact that systemic policy changes can have on the well-being of individual people. While the transformation of informal settlement residences into formal housing has generally been welcomed, engaging with relocated residents unveiled certain unanticipated issues that could only have been identified through their inclusion in the policymaking process. This experience heightened my awareness of the criticality of incorporating the perspectives of those most affected by policy alterations. From a public health standpoint, I also developed a deeper understanding of the pivotal role that housing plays in determining an individual’s overall health and well-being. We encountered and learned about numerous challenges, such as inadequate waste disposal, absence of running water, poor ventilation, and the use of charcoal stoves inside homes. If left unresolved, these issues have the potential to inflict significant harm.

Leon Moise Minani is an energy economist with a research interest in climate change, energy economics, environmental economics, and development interest. He holds a master of science in energy economics at the University of Rwanda. His empirical research on Tourism adaptability amid climate change and pollution in BRICS: a method of moments quantile regression approach was published in the journal Environmental Science and Pollution Research (ESPR) While more studies are under review in international peer-reviewed journals.

Clement Uwizeye is a passionate and driven economist hailing from Rwanda. with a Bachelor’s degree in Monetary Economics and a Master of Science in Economics specializing in Applied Quantitative Economics at the University of Rwanda, he has excelled in his academic pursuits. He has participated in an Erasmus+ exchange program at Kiel University in Germany, expanding his knowledge and skills. Clement’s thirst for knowledge is insatiable and started preparation courses for Ph.D., aiming to pursue a Ph.D. in Financial Economics, further showcasing his determination to contribute meaningfully to the field. He is also actively engaged in research on Macroeconometrics and Microeconometrics analysis, resilience, and development, focusing on issues like extension services, inclusive wealth accounting, and climate change policy. Clement’s expertise extends beyond academia, as he has undergone training in ASP (Advanced Studies program) by the prestigious Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IFW). Additionally, he participated in the central bank of Rwanda postgraduate research competition, where he showcased his skills in data analysis and modeling. A proficient researcher and analyst, he utilizes various software such as RStudio, EViews, Stata, and MATLAB including BEAR toolbox, Dynare, and econometric modeler toolbox, with little in Python, and SPSS, to produce valuable insights for policymakers. His versatility in MS Word and Latex for research writing further enhances his effectiveness in disseminating research findings. Beyond academics, he was an advisor on the executive committee at the Groupe Biblique Universitaire (GBU) at the University of Rwanda. His engagement in this role and his successful completion of the “21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership and Their Underlying Character Qualities” showcase his dedication to personal growth and the empowerment of others. During the hobby time, he plays piano.

Emmanuel Mugisha is a well-trusted with enthusiastic and passionate in Sales and Economics field. With Over 5years of experience in the industry of Sales and Business developments, He has worked with different organisations that includes; Transsion holdings, Mara phones Rwanda ltd and currently Skynet worldwide Express ltd, All in Sales and Business Developments. As he is Skilled and passionate with sales in Economics, he has a deep understanding of economic principles and their practical application in sales processes through analysing Data on a project, forecasting trends and providing strategic insight hence contributing to maximizing revenue, improving society satisfaction and driving overall business growth and social developments.

Emmanuel Mugisha is a well-trusted with enthusiastic and passionate in Sales and Economics field. With Over 5years of experience in the industry of Sales and Business developments, He has worked with different organisations that includes; Transsion holdings, Mara phones Rwanda ltd and currently Skynet worldwide Express ltd, All in Sales and Business Developments. As he is Skilled and passionate with sales in Economics, he has a deep understanding of economic principles and their practical application in sales processes through analysing Data on a project, forecasting trends and providing strategic insight hence contributing to maximizing revenue, improving society satisfaction and driving overall business growth and social developments.

Emmanuel, is pursuing his Master’s in Economics with hon in Applied Quantitative Economics from University of Rwanda under partnership with Senior staffs from institute of World Economy in University of Kiel Germany. Due to passion in Trade, he has written his thesis on Trade Openness among the East African Countries. He holds a bachelors degree in Economics from University of Rwanda. In addition to academia, He practiced his professional skills by applying for assistant and internships in Research centres and have been a warded Professional certification of Monitoring and Evaluation, Cost benefit analysis and Project Managements in accredited program providers within development centres.

When Emmanuel is not busy in doing research, he spends his time in praying football and golfing with his friends.