RWANDA AGRICULTURE BOARD SUPPORT AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPROVEMENT OF BENEFICIARIES: A CASE OF COOPERATIVE OF RICE DEVELOPMENT OF MUTARA VALLEY IN NYAGATARE DISTRICT

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Published Jul 2, 2026
DOI https://doi.org/10.61426/business.v7i1.545

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MARCEL SEBAHIRE
Mount Kenya University
IRECHUKWU EUGENIA NKECHI, PhD, PhD
School of Business and Economics, Mount Kigali University, Rwanda

Abstract

This study examined the role of Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) support programs on the socio-economic improvement of beneficiaries, with a focus on CODERVAM Cooperative in Nyagatare District, Rwanda. Specifically, it assessed the influence of training programs, financing support, and technical support on farmers' socio-economic outcomes, including income levels, food security, asset ownership, and living standards. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was adopted, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected from a sample of 170 respondents selected from a target population of 320 using stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Primary data were gathered using structured questionnaires and interview guides, while secondary data were obtained through document review. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis with the aid of SPSS version 27. The findings revealed that training programs were highly rated by respondents (composite mean = 4.45), financing support (mean = 4.44), and technical support (mean = 4.43), indicating strong positive perceptions of RAB interventions. Correlation results showed a strong positive relationship between socio-economic improvement and training programs (r = 0.688, p = 0.000), financing support (r = 0.615, p = 0.000), and a moderate relationship with technical support (r = 0.353, p = 0.000). Regression analysis indicated that training programs (β = 0.438, p = 0.000) and financing support (β = 0.389, p = 0.000) significantly influence socio-economic improvement, while technical support (β = 0.049, p = 0.425) was not statistically significant. The model explained 57.3% of the variation in socio-economic improvement (R² = 0.573), confirming a strong explanatory power of the independent variables. The study concludes that RAB training and financing support are key drivers of socio-economic improvement among cooperative members, while technical support plays a complementary but less significant role. It recommends strengthening integrated agricultural support systems, improving access to timely financing, and enhancing the quality and reach of training and extension services.

Article Details

Issue
Vol 7 No 1 (2026)
Section
Articles
Author Biographies

MARCEL SEBAHIRE, Mount Kenya University

Mount Kenya University

IRECHUKWU EUGENIA NKECHI, PhD, PhD, School of Business and Economics, Mount Kigali University, Rwanda

School of Business and Economics, Mount Kigali University, Rwanda

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