FINANCIAL AIDS PROGRAMMES AND POVERTY REDUCTION IN RWANDA A CASE OF GIVEDIRECTLY IN SELECTED SECTORS IN GISAGARA DISTRICT

Abstract

This study titled "The Financial Aid Programs and Poverty Reduction in Rwanda: A Case of GiveDirectly in Selected Sectors in Gisagara District”, the study objectives were, to explore the perceptions of the beneficiaries regarding the GiveDirectly financial aid assistance in Gisagara

17 District, to assess the contribution of financial aid assistance to the socio-economic development of vulnerable households in Gisagara District, and to find out the challenges encountered by beneficiaries of Give Directly financial aid assistance program in Gisagara District, as well as to set strategies that can help to redress these challenges hinder financial aid assistance to its beneficiaries in Gisagara District. The study reviewed the social protection theory, capability approach theory and human capital theory. The study adopted the mixed-methods approach, and in selecting the sample simple random and stratified sampling techniques were used and in collecting the data, questionnaires, interviews, and documentation were used, the data were analysed using narrative and descriptive statistical descriptive methods. Findings revealed that beneficiaries perceived significant improvements in living standards, increased access to healthcare, enhanced educational opportunities, and overall empowerment due to the financial aid received. However, challenges such as unclear communication, delays in fund disbursement, and inadequate information on aid utilization were also highlighted. To address these issues, recommendations include expanding programme reach, improving communication and transparency, ensuring timely disbursement of funds, providing financial literacy training, and establishing continuous support and follow-up for beneficiaries.