Rural Sector Support Projects And Poverty Reduction In Rwanda : A Case Of Animal Husbandry Farmers In Kabuye

Abstract

The study focused to finding out the impact of Rural Sector Support Project on poverty reduction in Rwanda using a case study of Animal Husbandry farming in Kabuye. The study aimed at assessing how the RSSP program had improved the standards of living of resident of Kabuye especially those engaged in Animal Husbandry farming. The study was guided by three objectives which were: different sectors in animal husbandry that are supported by RSSP; measures undertaken by RSSP to improve animal husbandry farming and the extent to which RSSP support to animal husbandry farming in Kabuye had reduced on the incidence of poverty. To achieve the set objectives, the study used a sample of 39 beneficiaries randomly selected and 3 staff purposely selected from RSSP. Data was collected by use of questionnaire and interviews, analyzed and summarized in tables following the objectives of the study and Frequencies and percentages were calculated based on the data available. The findings established that RSSP was supporting different sectors in animal husbandry farming in particular meat, egg, milk and hides and skin production. The study also established that measures undertaken by RSSP to improve animal husbandry farming in Kabuye involved training farmers, and improving animal health. On the extent of RSSP support to animal husbandry farming in reducing on the incidence of poverty in Kabuye, the study noted that RSSP had created employment. The study concluded by pointing out that RSSP through animal husbandry farming had helped beneficiaries gain employment and increase on their income. The study recommended that there is need to implement a programme of farmer training, including training of trainers, in promotion of intensive animal husbandry practices and develop farmer training centers, to provide specialized technical information to farmers and farmer organization