Capacity for sustaining agricultural innovation platforms in Rwanda
Moving out of donor supported agricultural innovation platforms with good strategies
Leonidas Dusengemungu
- 136 pages
- English
- PDF
- Available on iOS & Android
Capacity for sustaining agricultural innovation platforms in Rwanda
Moving out of donor supported agricultural innovation platforms with good strategies
Leonidas Dusengemungu
About This Book
Research Into Use (RIU), is a DFID funded project (2006-2011), aiming at strengthening capacities for uptake of agricultural innovations by end-users through Innovation Platforms (IPs). In Rwanda, RIU IPs are focusing on maize, cassava, potato and farmers associations respectively in Nyagatare, Gatsibo, Gicumbi and Karongi districts. The funding is coming to an end whereas capacity building is vital to sustain these platforms beyond the project duration. This study was designed to establish the contextual factors, institutional arrangements, incentives and competences required for effective functioning and sustainability of agricultural IPs in Rwanda. Based on relevant literature review, the methodology used included focus group discussions, individual interviews, observations and capacity needs scoring. Results indicate the success of RIU in establishing the four agricultural innovation platforms and strengthening social networks between various actors (farmers, cooperatives, local leaders, NGOs, etc.). Contextual factors conducive to agricultural IPs development include local resources, local actors and hard work. Recommendations will be used by DFID and its partners.