EFECT OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOs) INITIATIVES ON RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN NYAMASHEKE DISTRICT A CASE OF KULA PROJECT.

Abstract

The study conducted aims to examine the Effects Non-Governmental Organizations Initiatives on Rural Development in Rwanda, A case study of Kula Project in Nyamasheke District. To analyze the effects of the Kula Project on business development and entrepreneurship among beneficiaries in Nyamasheke District, to assess the contribution of the Kula Project to household socio-economic development in the district. To examine the effectiveness of the Kula Project in promoting efficient agricultural practices among coffee farmers. As well as to identify the challenges faced by Kula Project beneficiaries in Nyamasheke District. The study adopt the correlational with the mixture of qualitative and quantitative design, the target population were the beneficiaries of Kula project and the local leaders whose total is 500. The sample size was determined as 227 after using the Yamane formulae and in selecting the sample stratified and purposive sampling techniques were used. In collecting the data, questionnaire, interview and documentation were used while the descriptive statistical analysis and thematic analysis were used in analyzing the data. The study finds that the beneficiaries of the project entrepreneurial skills improved as well as the access to finances and the practical skills enhances entrepreneurial capabilities. The study also finds that Kula project increased income as well as food security improved among the households supported by the Kula project finally, the study finds that limited access to financial resources and inadequate access to agricultural inputs limits productivity are the challenges faced by Kula project. The study recommends that Kula project should enhance the access to agricultural inputs as well as improve access to education and training. The study also recommends the Nyamasheke District to continue to improve the infrastructure and streamline regulations for easier access to government support programs.