THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE JOINT ACTION DEVELOPMENT FORUM (JADF) TO THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL COMMUNITY IN RWANDA A CASE OF GAKENKE DISTRICT (2020 - 2023)

Abstract

The study conducted aims to find out the contribution of the Joint Action Development Forum (JADF) to the socio-economic Development of the Local Community in Gakenke District. A case of Gakenke District (2020 - 2023). The study’ objectives were to analyze the contribution of Joint Action Development initiatives to the socio-economic wellbeing in Gakenke District, to assess the extent of the Joint Action Development Forum to strengthening the Civil Society Organizations and public institutions partnership in the Gakenke District. And to identify the challenges the Joint Action Development Forum faces in implementing its initiatives. The study adopted the descriptive research design while questionnaire, interview and recommendations were used in data collection while descriptive statistical analysis were used while analyzing the data. The study finds that JADF facilitates the entrepreneurship development and contributes in reducing poverty. Regarding the contribution of JADF in strengthening civil society and public institutions partnership, the study finds JADF enhance the resource sharing between CSOs and public institutions and foster their collaboration. The study finds the challenges that faced by JADF such as bureaucratic obstacles and lack of community awareness about JADF activities and mandates. The study recommends that financial sustainability should be ensured and the bureaucratics process should be streamlined.