Abstract:
The purpose of the study was to assess the TUBURA project on the livelihoods of
KOAIRWA farmers in Rwanda. Employing a cross-sectional research design within
the southern province of Rwanda, Huye district, the research evaluates the project’s
influence through a multifaceted analysis. The researcher observed the sample size of
273, and the simple random sampling technique was used. The specific objectives
were to assess KOAIRWA farmers’ attitude towards TUBURA project for their
livelihood; to examine the implications of farming input availability, accessibility and
affordability on KOAIRWA farmers’ livelihood; to assess KOAIRWA farmers’
livelihood before and after the intervention of the TUBURA project. The study
employed both descriptive and inferential analysis that includes Multiple Linear
Regression and paired sample t-test. Findings reveal that the TUBURA project
garnered positive farmer attitudes, with a notable majority expressing satisfaction with
the intervention, which implied that farmers have a positive attitude towards the
TUBURA project since through their participation have improved their lives. The
availability (β = 0.164, p = 0.016) and accessibility (β = 0.202, p = 0.006) of farming
inputs, including seeds, pesticides, and fertilisers, were found to positively and
significantly enhance farmers’ livelihoods. In addition, the research findings indicate
that the TUBURA project has had a positive and significant impact on food security,
shelter, clothing, healthcare, and education access with a p < 001. In conclusion,
TUBURA project has made a substantial and positive contribution to the livelihoods of
KOIRWA farmers in Rwanda. The study recommendations span various areas,
including expanding outreach and training programs to involve all co-operative
members, addressing financial barriers to input affordability through government and
stakeholder initiatives, and promoting a savings culture among farmers to enhance
their resilience. Lastly, the study encourages farmers to diversify their livelihood
activities, including engaging in small businesses.
