Abstract:
Food insecurity represents a critical challenge to achieving the global Sustainable Development Goal of ending
hunger by 2030. Key factors, including limited access to essential resources and services, hinder farm
productivity, thereby exacerbating food security concerns. Agricultural co-operatives are globally acknowledged
as central to improving farmers' livelihoods and food security. However, their potential remains constrained by
inadequate infrastructure, insufficient inputs, and lack of technical support, among other challenges. This study
examines farmers’ perceptions of Agricultural Co-operative Based Projects (ACBPs), specifically the
KOAIRWA-Tubura project, in enhancing food security by improving access to infrastructure, inputs, and
technical support. A cross-sectional research design was used to randomly sample 273 farmers in Huye District,
Rwanda, to gather and analyse both quantitative and qualitative data. An ordinal logistic regression model
revealed that access to farming inputs, infrastructure, and technical support are significant predictors of food
security, with improved access reducing insecurity levels. Participants in the Tubura project reported, "During
the Tubura project, seeds were always available, whether it was the farming season or not... we are grateful to
the project for providing us with improved seeds" (KOAIRWA, July 2023). Focus group participants also
noted, "Thanks to the Tubura project, fertilizers were very affordable due to government subsidies"
(KOAIRWA, July 2023). The increased access to inputs has led to higher farm productivity and income, thereby
improving household food security. Additionally, infrastructural improvements such as the rehabilitation of
rural roads, enhanced irrigation systems, and the establishment of abattoirs, storage, and processing units have
facilitated both on-farm and off-farm business activities, boosting income and food security. It is recommended
that such initiatives be sustained and supported by Co-operative Promotion Authorities, co-operative societies,
policymakers, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure long-term food security in the region.
